{ Ave Maria (&unr_;), Ave Mary (&unr_;). } [From the first words of the Roman Catholic prayer to the Virgin Mary; L. ave hail, Maria Mary.] 1. A salutation and prayer to the Virgin Mary, as mother of God; -- used in the Roman Catholic church.
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To number Ave Maries on his beads. Shak.
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2. A particular time (as in Italy, at the ringing of the bells about half an hour after sunset, and also at early dawn), when the people repeat the Ave Maria.
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Ave Maria ! blessed be the hour ! Byron.
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