Petitioned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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petitioned

[pษ™หˆtษชสƒ.ษ™nd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

The term 'petitioned' refers to the act of formally requesting something, typically within a legal framework. It involves submitting a written request to an authority or court, asking for a specific action or decision. This can include petitions for a change in law, appeals for clemency, or requests for judicial review. The process generally requires adherence to certain rules and can vary significantly depending on the jurisdiction.

Synonyms

appealed, requested, sought.

Examples of usage

  • The group petitioned the city council for better public transportation.
  • She petitioned the court for custody of her children.
  • Citizens petitioned the government to address climate change.
  • The defendants petitioned for a new trial based on new evidence.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, petitioning often refers to asking a court to take a specific action, like filing for divorce or challenging a decision.
  • Petitions can be written documents, signed by many people, and presented to governing bodies to show public support for a cause.
  • Judicial petitions must follow specific formats and rules, varying from one jurisdiction to another.

Cultural Impact

  • Petitions have played crucial roles in social movements, including women's suffrage and civil rights.
  • The internet has transformed petitioning, allowing people to gather signatures quickly and widely through online platforms.
  • Famous petitions include the Pledge of Allegiance and initiatives to change laws, uplifting voices in democratic societies.

Psychological Perspective

  • Signing a petition can empower individuals, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
  • Research shows that collective action through petitions can increase a feeling of belonging and personal agency.
  • Psychologically, people are more likely to support a cause if they see others actively involved.

Pop Culture

  • Petitions often appear in movies or TV shows, depicted as a tool characters use to gather support or express dissent.
  • In animated series, characters may initiate petitions humorously, exaggerating the stakes to entertain viewers.
  • Real-life celebrities have used their platforms to launch petitions for various causes, attracting public attention rapidly.

Origin of 'petitioned'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'petitio', meaning 'a request or demand'.
  • It was first used in English during the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century.
  • The term evolved from describing formal requests to encompass grassroots movements with many supporters.

The word 'petitioned' originates from the Latin word 'petitio', meaning 'a request' or 'a claim'. This Latin term is associated with the verb 'petere', which translates to 'seek' or 'aim at'. Over the centuries, the word evolved through Old French before entering the English language. The earliest recorded use in English dates back to the late Middle Ages, where formal requests were increasingly used in legal and governmental settings. The meaning of 'petition' has remained fairly consistent, focusing on the notion of requesting or appealing for action or change. In contemporary usage, petitioning has expanded beyond legal boundaries, encompassing grassroots movements and social activism, reflecting the power of collective voices in influencing public policy.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,042, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.