plead

Meaning

Verb

• To present (an argument or a plea), especially in a legal case.
• To beg, beseech, or implore.
• To offer by way of excuse.
• To discuss by arguments.

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 {{der"), "an opinion, determination, prescription, order; literally, that which is pleasing, pleasure}}, neuter of placitus, past participle of placeō. Cognate with Spanish pleitear ("to litigate, take to court").