What is "orans"

n. (cx arts English) A figure in an attitude of prayer, usually standing, with the elbows close to the sides of the body and with the hands outstretched sideways, palms up.

Orans, a loanword from Medieval Latin translated as one who is praying or pleading, also Orant or Orante, is a posture or bodily attitude of prayer, usually standing, with the elbows close to the sides of the body and with the hands outstretched sideways, palms up. It was common in early Christianity and can frequently be seen in early Christian art. In modern times, the orans position is still preserved within parts of the Orthodox, Lutheran and Catholic liturgies, Pentecostal and charismatic worship, and the ascetical practices of some religious groups.