To entreat someone means to ask them earnestly and urgently for something you need or want very much. When you entreat, you're asking with real feeling, showing how important this is to you through the sincerity and emotion in your voice.

Picture a student who forgot their lunch money entreating a friend to share their sandwich, or a younger sibling entreating an older one to let them join the game. The word suggests a sense of pleading or begging, but with dignity. You might entreat your parents to let you get a pet, explaining carefully why it matters so much to you.

The word appears often in older stories and fairy tales. A prisoner might entreat a guard for mercy, or a character might entreat the king to spare someone's life. The formal sound of the word fits these serious situations, though you can use it for everyday requests too.

Entreat is stronger than “ask” but more respectful than “demand.” When you entreat someone, you're acknowledging that they have the power to say yes or no, and you're hoping your sincere request will move them to help you.