plead
/pliːd/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: pleads · pleading · pleaded
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To present (an argument or a plea), especially in a legal case.
Verb
Examples
The defendant has decided to plead not guilty.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To beg, beseech, or implore, especially emotionally.
Verb
Examples
He pleaded with me not to leave the house.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “plead” mean?
To present (an argument or a plea), especially in a legal case.
Is “plead” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.