Plead

Definition

Plead refers to the act of formally declaring, in a court of law, one's guilt or innocence. It can also mean to make an emotional or urgent request or appeal.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /plid/
• Respelling: PLEED (with "PLEED" as in "need")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pliːd/
• Respelling: PLEED (similar to American English, with "PLEED" as in "need")

In both dialects, "plead" is pronounced with a single, stressed syllable, "PLEED." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of the long "ee" sound.

Etymology

The term "plead" is derived from the Old French word "plaidier", which means "to go to law", from Latin "placitare", "to have a lawsuit", from "placitum", "decree, ordinance".

Derivatives

• Pleader
• Pleading
• Pleaded (or pled, in some American contexts)
• Pleadable
• Plea-bargaining

Synonyms

• Entreat
• Beseech
• Implore

Antonyms

• Command
• Demand
• Dictate

Usage

"Plead" is primarily used in the legal context to refer to a person's formal declaration in response to a charge. Outside of legal contexts, "plead" can be used to describe the act of making an urgent or emotional request.

Related Terms

• Appeal
• Petition
• Beg
• Request
• Solicit

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To make a formal declaration of one's guilt, innocence, or defense in a court of law.
• Example: "He pleaded guilty to the charges."

• To make an urgent, emotional, or earnest appeal or request.
• Example: "She pleaded for mercy."

• To offer as an argument, reason, or excuse in relation to a specific situation or action.
• Example: "He pleaded his case before the jury."