intransitive verb pleaded plead′ed or pled or plead (pled), pleading plead′·ing

1. 1. to present a case in a law court; argue the case of either party
   2. to present a plea (sense )
2. to make an earnest appeal; supplicate; beg to plead for mercy

Etymology: ME pleden < OFr plaidier < plaid: see plea

transitive verb

1. to discuss or defend (a law case) by argument
2. to declare oneself to be (guilty or not guilty) in answer to a charge
3. to offer as an excuse or defense to plead ignorance