Pronunciation: [ˈav mɐɹˈiːəz] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "Ave Marias" is actually "Ave Maria." The "s" at the end is a common mistake due to the pluralization of "Ave Marias" in Spanish. In IPA phonetic transcription, the correct pronunciation is /ˈɑːveɪ məˈriːə/. The stress is on the first syllable of both "Ave" and "Maria," with the "r" pronounced slightly as a flap in American English. The "ia" at the end is pronounced as "ee-uh."
"Ave Marias" is a Latin phrase that translates to "Hail Marys" in English. It is derived from two different words, "Ave" and "Mariam," both of which hold significant meanings in religious contexts. "Ave" is a Latin word meaning "hail" or "greetings," often used as an invocation or salutation. "Mariam" refers to Mary, the mother of Jesus in Christian theology.
In Catholicism and other Christian denominations, "Ave Marias" specifically refers to the devotional prayer known as the "Hail Mary." The prayer begins with the words "Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee," and continues to honor the Virgin Mary, seeking her intercession with God. It is a fundamental component of Catholicism, and it is commonly recited as part of the Rosary or during other devotional practices.
The term "Ave Marias" can also be used more broadly to denote the act of reciting multiple "Hail Mary" prayers consecutively. In this sense, it is often used to characterize a specific number of prayers offered in honor of Mary for various intentions, such as seeking her assistance, showing devotion, or seeking repentance.
Furthermore, "Ave Marias" can be employed metaphorically or symbolically to express reverence, respect, or devotion towards Mary or women in general, especially in artistic, literary, or cultural contexts.
The term "Ave Marias" is a combination of two Latin words: "ave" and "Mariam".
The word "ave" comes from the Latin verb "avere", which means "to be well" or "to be hail". In Christian liturgy and tradition, it is often used as a form of greeting or salutation, meaning "hail" or "rejoice".
The word "Mariam" is the accusative form of the name "Maria" in Latin. It is derived from the Greek form of the Hebrew name "Miriam", which means "beloved" or "wished-for child". In Christian tradition, "Maria" refers to the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus.
When combined, "Ave Marias" thus means "hail Mary" or "rejoice, Mary".
