Vocabulary word Entreat - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Interaction and Articulation

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Persuasion and Negotiation

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Prefix en-

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SAT 7 (Scholastic Assessment Test)

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Dictionary Definition of entreat

To earnestly request or beg someone to do something, often in a pleading or beseeching manner.
"We entreat the judge to review the evidence once more."

Detailed Meaning of Entreat

It implies a sense of urgency or desperation, as if the person making the entreaty feels that their request is of great importance or significance. The word "entreat" is often used in situations where someone is asking for help or assistance, or where they are trying to persuade someone to do something that they might not otherwise do. Entreaties can be made in a variety of contexts, including personal relationships, business negotiations, and political or social movements. Despite its urgency and pleading connotations, the verb "entreat" can also be used in a polite and respectful manner, showing a willingness to listen and compromise.

Example Sentences for Entreat

1. "I entreat you to stay, for we are stronger together than apart," she whispered.
2. "Please, I entreat you, let wisdom guide your steps," the old man said gently.
3. He'll entreat her to sing, knowing her voice brings peace to restless souls.
4. To entreat a favor of you, I stand here, vulnerable and hopeful, my friend.
5. In the moon's soft glow, I entreat you to forgive, let us start anew.
6. I entreat you, join our cause; together, we’ll unveil a dawn of hope.

Origin and Etymology of Entreat

The verb 'entreat' has its etymological origins in Middle English, specifically from the word 'entretien,' which means 'interaction' or 'conversation.' This Middle English term, in turn, was influenced by the Old French word 'entreatier,' derived from 'en' (meaning 'in' or 'into') and 'traitier' (meaning 'to treat' or 'to negotiate'). Over time, in the late 14th century, 'entreat' emerged in English to describe the act of negotiating or interacting with someone, often with a sense of urgency or importance. As the word evolved, it came to signify earnestly requesting or begging someone to do something, frequently in a pleading or beseeching manner. The etymology of 'entreat' thus reflects its historical roots in the realm of communication and interaction, emphasizing the heartfelt and often urgent nature of the request.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb entreat:

command

coerce

plead

demand

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More Usage Examples of Entreat

1. With tears, I entreat you to reconsider; there’s still time to change.
2. In silence and sorrow, I'll entreat him to return, mending broken bonds.
3. I entreat a moment’s grace, to prove my worth and reclaim your trust.
4. Angels entreat your safety on journeys that await in stars’ soft embrace.
5. In this dark hour, I entreat you, let not despair eclipse our love’s light.
6. I entreat you to consider my proposal carefully.
7. They entreat us to join their cause for environmental protection.
8. You must entreat him to stay; his expertise is vital.
9. He will entreat his friends to help him in this difficult time.
10. She did nothing but entreat the teacher for extra time on the project.
11. With tears in her eyes, she began to entreat her father to let her go.
12. I entreat all citizens to follow the new regulations.
13. You should entreat the council to reconsider their decision.
14. They entreat her every day to visit, but she never does.
15. I entreat your forgiveness for my past mistakes.
16. We entreat the government to take action on poverty.
17. The children entreat their parents to buy them the new toy.
18. He will entreat them once more, but he's losing hope.
19. If you entreat him nicely, he might just agree to your request.
20. The general did entreat his soldiers to fight bravely.
21. With respect, I entreat you to look at this matter from my perspective.
22. The fans entreat the coach to make a change, but he seems resolute.
23. They entreat the king for mercy but find none.
24. I will entreat my colleagues to support this bill as it comes up for a vote.