Entreat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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entreat

[ษชnหˆtriหt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

formal

To ask earnestly; to beg for something eagerly.

Synonyms

beg, beseech, implore.

Examples of usage

  • She entreated him to stay a little longer.
  • I entreat you to reconsider your decision.
Context #2 | Verb

literary

To make an earnest request or petition.

Synonyms

invoke, plead, supplicate.

Examples of usage

  • He entreated the king for mercy.
  • The villagers entreated the council for help.
Context #3 | Noun

formal

A serious or urgent request.

Synonyms

appeal, petition, plea.

Examples of usage

  • She made an entreat to the authorities for assistance.
  • His entreat fell on deaf ears.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The word often appears in classic literature, emphasizing heartfelt appeals or supplications, such as in Shakespeare's plays.
  • In Charles Dickens's works, characters frequently entreat others as a way to express desperation or hope.
  • Poets have used 'entreat' to convey deep emotional pleas, connecting human experience with the desire for connection.

Psychology

  • Using entreaties can demonstrate vulnerability, often leading to empathetic responses from others.
  • Research shows that emotional appeals in pleas can significantly impact decision-making and compliance.
  • The process of entreating involves not just the request itself, but also the relationship dynamics between the requester and the recipient.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the manner of entreating can differ, reflecting social norms of politeness and respect.
  • Certain rituals incorporate formal entreaties, particularly in religious or spiritual contexts, showing reverence in requests.
  • In many societies, entreaties can convey humility and respect, influencing how requests are perceived and responded to.

Communication

  • When someone entreats another, they often use persuasive language to make their request more appealing.
  • The effectiveness of an entreaty can rely heavily on tone and body language, as well as the context of the conversation.
  • Successful entreaties often involve understanding the other person's perspective, creating a more collaborative atmosphere.

Origin of 'entreat'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Entreat' comes from the Old French word 'entreter,' meaning to treat or deal with someone.
  • Its roots trace back to the Latin 'intractare,' which combines the prefix 'in-' with 'tractare,' meaning to handle or draw.
  • Related words include 'treat' and 'treaty,' highlighting connections to negotiation and agreement.

The word 'entreat' originated from the Old French word 'entraiter', meaning 'to treat or negotiate with', which in turn came from the Latin word 'tractare', meaning 'to handle' or 'to manage'. Over time, the meaning of 'entreat' evolved to its current usage of making an earnest request or plea.


See also: entreaty, maltreatment, mistreat, retreat, treat, treated, treaties, treatise, treatment, treats, treaty, untreatable, untreated.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,564, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.