Entreat

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈtrit/

Definitions

• 1. To ask someone earnestly or urgently to do something.
• 2. To plead or beg for something with sincerity and intense feeling.

Usage Examples

1. "She entreated him to stay, but he had already made up his mind to leave." (Meaning: She urgently begged him to stay.)

2. "The villagers entreated the king for help after the devastating flood." (Meaning: The villagers pleaded with the king for assistance.)

3. "He entreated the audience to support the charity with their donations." (Meaning: He earnestly asked the audience to contribute.)

4. "I entreat you to consider my request with all due seriousness." (Meaning: I implore you to take my request seriously.)

Etymology

The verb "entreat" comes from the Middle English "entreten," meaning "to treat or handle with care." It has its origins in Old French "entreter," from Latin "interrogare" (to ask, question), with the prefix "en-" implying action. Over time, the meaning shifted toward the sense of earnestly asking or pleading with someone for something.

Synonyms

• Beg
• Plead
• Implore
• Appeal
• Request
• Ask
• Beseech

Antonyms

• Demand
• Command
• Order
• Instruct
• Reprimand

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ɪnˈtrit/
• American English: /ɪnˈtrit/
• Australian English: /ɪnˈtrit/
• Spanish (Spain): /roˈɣar/
• French (France): /sy.pli.ke/

Historical Usage

The word "entreat" has been used since the Middle Ages, stemming from the Old French "entretier," meaning "to treat or manage" and originally signifying an earnest request or plea. The word was more common in formal speech and writing, and it often conveyed an emotional or desperate tone in the asking. Although the word has seen a decline in casual modern usage, it remains a powerful tool in literary, legal, and religious contexts, where emotional appeals are often needed.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, "entreating" someone conveys more than just a simple request—it implies a deep emotional investment. For example, in religious or spiritual contexts, an individual might entreat a deity for guidance or mercy, reflecting not only a request but a plea for divine intervention. Similarly, in relationships or social interactions, to entreat someone is to show a high level of respect and urgency. In some cultures, the act of entreating can symbolize humility, submission, or a recognition of one's vulnerability.

More Information

The act of entreating someone goes beyond a mere request. It implies an emotional or moral plea, often with a sense of desperation or urgency. Whether in literature, daily conversation, or formal contexts, entreating expresses a level of earnestness that separates it from other forms of asking. The word carries a rich historical and cultural significance, especially in contexts involving petitions, prayers, or requests for mercy. Understanding the depth and sincerity behind an entreaty helps underscore the word's enduring relevance in both historical and contemporary language.