Plead
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /pliːd/ · Part of speech verb
Quick meaning: Plead is a verb meaning (ambitransitive, copulative) To present (an argument or a plea), especially in a legal case.
Meaning
(ambitransitive, copulative) To present (an argument or a plea), especially in a legal case.
More Meanings
- (intransitive) To beg, beseech, or implore, especially emotionally.
- (transitive) To offer by way of excuse.
- (transitive) To discuss by arguments.
Example Sentences
He was pleading for mercy.
He pleaded with me not to leave the house.
The defendant has decided to plead not guilty.
Not wishing to attend the banquet, I pleaded illness.
Word Forms
- pleads
- pleading
- pleaded
- pled
Synonyms for plead
Depending on context, synonyms include appeal, ask, beg, request, entreat, allege.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include beseeching, imploring, appealing, importunate, litigate, sue.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.