plead

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To ask for something in a very emotional and urgent way.

   He pleaded with me not to leave the house.

2. 2
   verb

   To officially state in a court of law whether you are guilty or not guilty.

   The defendant pleaded not guilty.

3. 3
   verb

   To give something as an excuse or reason.

   Not wishing to attend the banquet, I pleaded illness.

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 opinion, determination, prescription, order; literally, that which is pleasing, pleasure”), neuter of placitus, past participle of placeō (“to please”). Cognate with Spanish pleitear (“to litigate, take to court”).

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