Definition
To entreat means to earnestly request or plead with someone to do something or to refrain from doing something.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of speech
Verb
Synonyms
Beseech, implore, beg, plead, appeal, petition, solicit, urge, impetrate, importune
Antonyms
Refuse, reject, dissuade, deter, ignore
Example sentences
- She entreated her boss for a day off so that she could attend her sister’s wedding.
- The prisoner entreated the judge for mercy and a reduced sentence.
- The parents entreated their daughter to reconsider dropping out of school and pursue her dreams.
- The doctor entreated his patient to quit smoking for the sake of his health.
Usage
Entreat is a verb that is often used in situations where someone is making a plea or appeal to someone else. It is a formal and somewhat old-fashioned word that connotes a sense of urgency or desperation. It is often used in literature and historical texts to describe dramatic or emotional situations.
The word “entreat” can be used with various prefixes and suffixes to create related words. For example, the prefix “re-” can be added to create the word “entreating,” which means to plead or request again or repeatedly. The suffix “-y” can be added to create “entreaty,” which refers to a plea or request made by someone.
Entreat can also be used in religious or spiritual contexts, particularly in the phrase “I entreat thee,” which is often used in prayers or petitions. In this sense, it carries a sense of reverence and humility, and is used to show respect and deference to a higher power.
In summary, entreat is a verb that is used to describe earnest requests or pleas made to someone. It is a formal and somewhat old-fashioned word that is often used in dramatic or emotional situations. Entreat can also be used with prefixes and suffixes to create related words that carry different connotations and meanings
