Definition

1. Noun:
   • A specific Catholic prayer: "Hail Mary" is a traditional prayer in the Roman Catholic Church, addressed to the Virgin Mary. It begins with the words "Hail Mary, full of grace..."
   • A desperate, last-resort attempt: In general usage, a "Hail Mary" refers to a final, long-shot effort made in a desperate situation with little chance of success.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Prayer):

  • The congregation recited the Hail Mary together.
  • She says a Hail Mary every evening before bed.

• Noun (Desperate attempt):

  • With only seconds left, the quarterback threw a Hail Mary pass into the end zone.
  • Submitting that application was a real Hail Mary; I didn't think they'd actually call me for an interview.

Advanced Usage

• "to throw/try a Hail Mary": to make a final, desperate attempt when all other options have failed.
  • The company is throwing a Hail Mary with this new product launch to avoid bankruptcy.

Variants and Related Words

• Hail Mary pass (n): In American football, a very long forward pass made in desperation at the end of a half or game, with a low probability of completion. This sports term is the origin of the general figurative meaning.
  • The game was won on an incredible 60-yard Hail Mary pass.

Synonyms

• Long shot: An attempt or bet with only a slight chance of success.
• Last-ditch effort: A final attempt made when there are no other options left.

Related Idioms

• A prayer and a hope: An endeavor undertaken with more hope than expectation of success, similar to a "Hail Mary."
  • Our plan to fix the old car is just a prayer and a hope at this point.

Noun

1. a salutation to the Virgin Mary now used in prayers to her