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

“Tune Up,” maybe the most slyly funky song he ever wrote, displays his gymnastic composure as he doubles with the bass’s two-note vamp then soars up to entreat us: “Get close to all that’s pure and beautiful.”

From New York Times

“A sore-throat!—I hope not infectious. I hope not of a putrid infectious sort. Has Perry seen her? Indeed you should take care of yourself as well as of your friend. Let me entreat you to run no risks. Why does not Perry see her?”

From Literature

They combated the point some time longer in the same way; Emma rather gaining ground over the mind of her friend; for Mrs. Weston was the most used of the two to yield; till a little bustle in the room shewed them that tea was over, and the instrument in preparation;—and at the same moment Mr. Cole approaching to entreat Miss Woodhouse would do them the honour of trying it.

From Literature

“Very well, I am much obliged to you. My mother is delightfully well; and Jane caught no cold last night. How is Mr. Woodhouse?—I am so glad to hear such a good account. Mrs. Weston told me you were here.—Oh! then, said I, I must run across, I am sure Miss Woodhouse will allow me just to run across and entreat her to come in; my mother will be so very happy to see her—and now we are such a nice party, she cannot refuse.—‘

From Literature

She then broke the lace off short, and dexterously throwing it into a ditch, was presently obliged to entreat them to stop, and acknowledged her inability to put herself to rights so as to be able to walk home in tolerable comfort.

From Literature