n. 1 an earnest appeal or entreaty. 2 Law a formal statement by or on behalf of a defendant. 3 an argument or excuse. plea bargaining US an arrangement between prosecutor and defendant whereby the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in the expectations of leniency.
[ ME & AF ple, plai, OF plait, plaid agreement, discussion f. L placitum a decree, neut. past part. of placere to please ]