*ave maria*

{ ‖ } [ 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

To number Ave Maries on his beads. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

Ave Maria ! blessed be the hour ! Byron. [ 1913 Webster ]