Litanies (plural of litany) are ritualistic recitations, typically of prayers or petitions, often characterized by repetitive phrases and responses. They are used in various religious contexts, including Christianity, Judaism, and other faiths, to express supplication, praise, or confession. litanies can also refer to any tedious or repetitive recital, a prolonged series or account of something, especially complaints or grievances. They often evoke a feeling of solemnity or monotony, depending on the context and intended effect. This emphasizes the patterned and sometimes wearying quality of the recitation.
Litanies meaning with examples
- The priest began the morning service with a solemn litany of forgiveness, each phrase met with the congregation's whispered response of 'Lord, have mercy.' The rhythmic repetition created a sense of shared piety, drawing worshippers into a deeper state of prayer. The ancient words, echoing through the church, united the community in their shared faith and common needs.
- After receiving his monthly bill, the customer launched into a litany of complaints about hidden fees and slow internet speeds. His long list of grievances, repeated to the customer service representative, made the call longer. The monotonous recounting of his problems displayed his frustration.
- The historical account presented a litany of tragic events that led to the downfall of the empire, painting a grim picture of corruption and decay. Each chapter detailed another instance of betrayal, loss, and misfortune, creating a sense of inevitable decline. The persistent repetition of suffering made a gripping study of downfall.
- During their pre-flight briefing, the pilot recited a litany of safety procedures, ensuring every possible scenario was addressed before takeoff. Each step in the checklist was announced methodically, guaranteeing the aircraft's secure and safe journey. He used a patterned recital to prevent human error.