plea

/ˈpleɪə/ /ˈpleɪ/; /ˈpliːə/

Definitions

1. noun

a heartfelt request or appeal, especially for help or mercy

“She made a plea to the judge for leniency in the sentence.”

2. verb

to make a request or appeal, especially in a desperate or emotional manner

“The lawyer pleaded with the jury to consider the evidence carefully.”

3. noun

a statement made in a law court, typically by a defendant, in an attempt to mitigate the severity of a sentence or to plead not guilty

“The defendant made a plea of not guilty to the charges.”

4. noun

a musical composition, typically for solo instrument, that is a slow, expressive piece, especially one expressing sorrow or regret

“The pianist played a beautiful plea at the end of the concert.”

Synonyms

  • appeal
  • petition
  • request

Antonyms

  • dismissal
  • rejection