2026

Plead

//pliːd//

Definitions

verbpleads · pleading · pleaded · pled · plead

1
To present (an argument or a plea), especially in a legal case.
The defendant has decided to plead not guilty.
2
To beg, beseech, or implore, especially emotionally.
He pleaded with me not to leave the house.
Similar
appeal ask beg
3
To offer by way of excuse.
Not wishing to attend the banquet, I pleaded illness.
Similar
allege claim cry

Word Origin

From Middle English pleden, plaiden, from Old French plaider (“to plead, offer a plea”), from plait, from Medieval Latin placitum (“a decree, sentence, suit, plea, etc.", in Classical Latin, "an opini...

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