Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈtriːti/

Definitions

• 1. An earnest or humble request; a plea or petition.
• 2. The act of asking urgently or fervently for something.

Usage Examples

1. "The king heard the entreaty of his people and decided to grant their request." (Meaning: The earnest plea from the people.)

2. "Her entreaty for mercy was met with a cold silence." (Meaning: Her urgent request for forgiveness.)

3. "The entreaty to the government was signed by thousands of citizens." (Meaning: The collective plea from citizens.)

4. "Despite his entreaty, the decision remained unchanged." (Meaning: His heartfelt plea was unsuccessful.)

Etymology

The word "entreaty" comes from the verb "entreat," which originates from Old French "entretier" (to treat or maintain) and Middle English "entreten" (to hold together). The word "entreat" itself derives from the Latin "tractare" meaning "to handle or treat." The suffix "-y" was added to form the noun, implying the act or result of entreating. The term has been used since the 14th century to signify earnest or urgent requests, often in formal or religious contexts.

Synonyms

• Plea
• Appeal
• Request
• Begging
• Supplication
• Solicitation
• Prayer

Antonyms

• Demand
• Command
• Imposition
• Order
• Requirement

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ɪnˈtriːti/
• American English: /ɪnˈtriːti/
• Spanish (Spain): /su.pli.kaˈθjon/
• French (France): /sy.pli.ke/

Historical Usage

The term "entreaty" has been in use since the 14th century and evolved from the verb "entreat," meaning to plead earnestly or urgently. It was originally used in formal settings, often in the context of petitions to rulers, deities, or authorities. Over the centuries, the word came to be associated with a plea that conveyed a sense of humility, desperation, or intense need. In literature, "entreaty" has appeared in many notable works, often highlighting a character’s emotional or moral appeal. It is still used in formal contexts today but has largely fallen out of everyday language.

Cultural Nuances

The word "entreaty" is often used to convey not just a request, but an appeal that is deeply emotional or sincere. In religious or spiritual contexts, an entreaty might represent a plea for divine intervention or mercy. In the legal realm, it can be a formal petition for assistance or a change in decision. In many cultures, making an entreaty reflects not only the urgency of the request but also the emotional state of the person making it—whether it be fear, desperation, hope, or reverence. The depth of this emotional appeal often influences the response received.

More Information

"Entreaty" involves a strong emotional appeal, often conveying urgency, pleading, or earnestness. It is a term that implies not just a request, but a deeply felt, heartfelt plea for action, mercy, or intervention. The usage of "entreaty" can vary from formal petitions to informal pleas, but its presence in literature and historical documents shows its weight in human interactions. Whether it’s a king listening to the entreaties of his people or a character in a novel appealing for mercy, the power of an entreaty lies in the emotional depth and sincerity behind the words.