plea

Definition

An appeal, petition, urgent prayer or entreaty.

Etymology

From Middle English ple, from Old French plait, plaid, from Medieval Latin placitum (“a decree, sentence, suit, plea, etc., Latin an opinion, determination, prescription, order; literally, that which is pleasing, pleasure”), neuter of placitus, past participle of placere (“to please”). Cognate with Spanish pleito (“lawsuit, suit”). Doublet of placit. See also please, pleasure.

Example Sentences

• "Even if only one person answers my plea for someone to correspond with it will be a blessing."
• "a plea for mercy"
• "make a plea"

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