Plea

Noun

Definition: A sincere and earnest request or appeal.

Definition: In law, a formal statement made by or on behalf of a defendant or prisoner, stating guilt or denial of the charges, which is presented in court.

Synonyms: Appeal, Request, Entreaty, Supplication

Antonyms: Refusal, Denial

Examples:

She made a plea for help.
The defendant entered a plea of not guilty.

Mnemonics:

Think of "plea" as similar to "plead," emphasizing the act of making a request or appealing to someone.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English "plee," from Anglo-French "plai," from Latin "placitum" meaning "a decree" or "an opinion."

Historical Usage:

The word "plea" has been used in the English language since the 13th century and has remained relatively unchanged in its meaning and usage over time.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Bargain plea"

Explanation:

Refers to when a defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "plea" with "plead."

Explanation:

"Plea" refers to the request or appeal made, while "plead" is the action of making a plea or the act of formally stating guilt or denial in a legal context.