of Plead
(v. t.) To argue in support of a claim, or in defense against the
claim of another; to urge reasons for or against a thing; to attempt to
persuade one by argument or supplication; to speak by way of
persuasion; as, to plead for the life of a criminal; to plead with a
judge or with a father.
(v. t.) To present an answer, by allegation of fact, to the
declaration of a plaintiff; to deny the plaintiff's declaration and
demand, or to allege facts which show that ought not to recover in the
suit; in a less strict sense, to make an allegation of fact in a cause;
to carry on the allegations of the respective parties in a cause; to
carry on a suit or plea.
(v. t.) To contend; to struggle.
(v. t.) To discuss, defend, and attempt to maintain by arguments
or reasons presented to a tribunal or person having uthority to
determine; to argue at the bar; as, to plead a cause before a court or
jury.
(v. t.) To allege or cite in a legal plea or defense, or for
repelling a demand in law; to answer to an indictment; as, to plead
usury; to plead statute of limitations; to plead not guilty.
(v. t.) To allege or adduce in proof, support, or vendication; to
offer in excuse; as, the law of nations may be pleaded in favor of the
rights of ambassadors.
