Petition
As a Noun
- A formal written request, typically signed by many people, asking for a specific action or change.
- A legal document requesting a court to take a particular action.
- A humble or earnest request made to someone in authority.
As a Verb
- To formally request something, especially from an authority or government.
- To make a sincere appeal for help or support.
As Other Form
- Petitioner (Noun): A person who submits a petition or makes a formal request.
- Petitioning (Verb): The act of making a formal or earnest request.
Word History
The word petition comes from the Latin petitio, meaning “request” or “solicitation,” derived from petere, which means “to seek” or “to ask.” It was adopted into Middle English through Old French and has long been associated with formal appeals for justice, rights, or policy changes.
Examples
- The activists started a petition to ban plastic bags in the city.
- She filed a petition in court to gain custody of her child.
- Students petitioned the school for a longer lunch break.
Synonyms
Request, appeal, plea, application, demand
Related Words
Proposal, complaint, motion, solicitation
Antonyms
Order, command, directive, refusal
