Meaning & Definition of word "Plea"

Plea

/pliː/

1. A request made in an urgent and emotional manner.
- Example: His plea for help was heard by everyone in the room.
2. A formal statement made in a court of law, especially by a defendant in response to a charge.
- Example: The defendant entered a plea of not guilty to the charges.
3. An appeal or request for mercy or forgiveness.
- Example: She made a heartfelt plea to the judge to reconsider the sentence.
4. A statement made to persuade someone to take action or to agree with a point of view.
- Example: His plea for environmental protection resonated with the audience.

Middle English, from Old French 'plea', from Latin 'placitum' meaning 'something pleasing or agreeable'.

plea bargain:

An agreement in a criminal case where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge.

make a plea:

To formally request or appeal for something.

desperate plea:

An urgent and emotional appeal for help or support.

plead:

To make an emotional appeal or to state a response in court.

pleading:

The action of making a plea, especially in legal contexts.

pleader:

A person who makes a plea, often in court.

Meaning: A request for help or support, often used informally.

Example Sentence: He put out a plea on social media for backup.

Meaning: A cop-out or excuse, slang usage in casual conversations.

Example Sentence: That's just a lame plea to get out of it.