Hail Mary pass

Meaning

Noun

• A long forward pass with little chance of completion, typically used by the losing team when time is running out and no other play is practical, in a desperate attempt to score the winning points.
• An act done in desperation, with only a very small chance of success.

Origin

• From Hail Mary, a prayer for intercession, from Latin Ave Maria, plus pass. Attested from the 1970s in the context of American football.