plead

/pliːd/

Etymology

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”).

plead means to present (an argument or a plea), especially in a legal case. Lexicurio rates it Distinctive — a strength score of 69 out of 100.

verb

To present (an argument or a plea), especially in a legal case.“The defendant has decided to plead not guilty.”
To beg, beseech, or implore, especially emotionally.“He pleaded with me not to leave the house.”
To offer by way of excuse.“Not wishing to attend the banquet, I pleaded illness.”
To discuss by arguments.