plead

To appeal earnestly; beg.

To offer reasons for or against something; argue earnestly.

To provide an argument or appeal.

To respond to a criminal charge.

To assert as defense, vindication, or excuse; claim as a plea.

To specify (a cause of action or defense).

To set forth in a pleading.

In law, to present an answer to the declaration or complaint of a plaintiff, or the charge of a prosecutor; deny the plaintiff’s declaration or complaint, or allege facts relied on as showing that he ought not to recover in the suit.

To urge a plea, an argument, or an excuse for or against a claim, or in support, justification, extenuation, etc.; endeavor to persuade by argument or supplication; urge reasons or use argument: as, to plead with a judge for a criminal or in his favor; to plead with a wrongdoer, urging him to reform.