entreat

[ en-treet ]

verb (used with object)

1. to ask (a person) earnestly; beseech; implore; beg:

   to entreat the judge for mercy.

   Synonyms: solicit, sue, importune, pray

2. to ask earnestly for (something):

   He entreated help in his work.

verb (used without object)

1. to make an earnest request or petition.

entreat

/ ɪnˈtriːt /

verb

1. to ask (a person) earnestly; beg or plead with; implore
2. to make an earnest request or petition for (something)
3. an archaic word for treat

Derived Forms

• enˈtreatingly, adverb
• enˈtreatment, noun

Other Words From

• en·treating·ly adverb
• en·treatment noun
• nonen·treating adjective
• nonen·treating·ly adverb
• unen·treated adjective
• unen·treating adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of entreat¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English entreten, from Middle French entrait(i)er; en- ¹, treat

Word History and Origins

Origin of entreat¹

C15: from Old French entraiter, from en- ¹+ traiter to treat

Synonym Study

See appeal.

Example Sentences

Of course Edna would like to hear Mademoiselle Reisz play; but she feared it would be useless to entreat her.

From Project Gutenberg

And we earnestly entreat all colored persons who can, to study, and have their children taught Spanish.

From Project Gutenberg

“Put it down,” repeated Conscience authoritatively, deigning no longer to argue or entreat.

From Project Gutenberg

Of the charges themselves I shall offer no opinion, but entreat every member to judge for himself.

From Project Gutenberg

Let us entreat honest men not to take names for things, nor pretences for proofs.

From Project Gutenberg