1. Petition (noun): A formal written request made to an authority or institution, typically signed by multiple individuals.
2. Petition (verb): To formally request or appeal for something, especially through a written document.
3. Petition (noun): A formal application or motion submitted to a court or governing body.

A petition is a formal written request that asks an authority to act or change a rule. Court documents use the word for filings that open civil actions or seek specific orders. Activists circulate petitions to show public backing for new laws or policy shifts. Some faith traditions keep the sense alive in prayers of petition directed to a deity. Add this persuasive word to your vocabulary and study how it channels collective voice.

"Petition" Definition: What Does "Petition" Mean?

The term "petition" carries diverse meanings, from civic activism to legal applications. Here are its primary definitions:

Definition of "Petition": Formal Written Request

As a noun, "petition" refers to a formal document signed by individuals to request action from an authority, such as a government, organization, or institution. This usage is common in social movements and public advocacy.

Definition of "Petition": To Request or Appeal

As a verb, "petition" involves the act of formally asking for something through a written or verbal appeal. It highlights the process of initiating a request or demand.

Definition of "Petition": Legal Application

In legal contexts, a "petition" is a formal application submitted to a court or governing body, often requesting a specific ruling or decision.

Parts of Speech

“Petition” operates as both noun and verb. As a noun it names the document or plea itself, while as a verb it means to make that request, as in “residents petition the council.” Rare adjectival forms like “petitionary” appear in legal and theological writing.

How to Pronounce "Petition"?

Say it in three beats, stressing the middle: “puh-TI-shun.” Start with a soft “puh,” move to a crisp “TI” like in “tip,” then finish with “shun” where the “sh” flows easily.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /pəˈtɪʃ.ən/

Synonyms of "Petition": Other Ways to Say "Petition"

Understanding synonyms of "petition" enriches your vocabulary. Here are some examples:

• Request
• Appeal
• Application
• Plea
• Proposal
• Entreaty
• Solicitation
• Motion
• Demand
• Address

Antonyms of "Petition": Other Ways to Say "Petition"

Exploring antonyms of "petition" can clarify its opposite concepts. Here are some examples:

• Command
• Order
• Directive
• Edict
• Decree
• Mandate
• Instruction
• Dismissal
• Refusal
• Prohibition

Examples of "Petition" in a Sentence

To demonstrate the flexibility of "petition" in various contexts, here are ten sentences:

1. The group submitted a petition to the city council requesting more public parks.
2. They plan to petition the government for stricter environmental regulations.
3. The student body drafted a petition to extend library hours during exams.
4. Her lawyer filed a petition for a retrial based on new evidence.
5. The employees decided to petition their employer for better working conditions.
6. A petition signed by thousands of citizens led to changes in the policy.
7. The activists organized a campaign to collect signatures for their petition.
8. The tenant filed a formal petition to contest the eviction notice.
9. The petitioners urged the court to consider their petition for leniency in sentencing.
10. The online petition garnered widespread support from people around the world.

Frequency of Use

The term "petition" is frequently used in legal, civic, and advocacy contexts. It has become especially prominent in the digital age, with platforms like Change.org and Avaaz enabling individuals to create and sign petitions online, amplifying their impact.

Variants of "Petition"

"Petition" has a few variants and related forms. Here are some examples:

1. Petitioner: A person who files or submits a petition.
2. Petitioning: The act of making a formal request or appeal.
3. Petitioned: Past tense, indicating that a formal request has been made.

Related Terms to "Petition"

Here are some terms related to "petition" that deepen understanding:

1. Appeal
2. Motion
3. Plea
4. Application
5. Entreaty
6. Redress
7. Advocacy
8. Protest
9. Campaign
10. Solicitation

Etymology: History and Origins of "Petition"

The word traces back to the Latin “petitio,” meaning a seeking or request. It entered Anglo-French legal vocabulary in the thirteenth century and soon appeared in English parliamentary records. By the seventeenth century commoners submitted mass petitions to the English crown on matters such as trade rights. American colonists later framed the right “to petition for redress of grievances” in the First Amendment. Modern digital tools preserve the original purpose of appealing upward for change.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Petition"

The word "petition" has several derivatives and compounds that extend its meaning. Here are a few:

1. Class-action petition: A formal request filed by a group of individuals sharing a common grievance.
2. Online petition: A digital appeal or request, often shared on social media platforms.
3. Legal petition: A formal document submitted to a court for legal action.

Common Misspellings of "Petition"

Common spelling errors can cause confusion. Here are some frequent mistakes:

1. Petetion
2. Pettition
3. Petiton
4. Petetion
5. Petishun

10 Idioms Similar to "Petition"

Idioms related to "petition" often convey the act of requesting or appealing. Here are ten:

1. Put in a request
2. Make a plea
3. File a motion
4. Ask for redress
5. Throw oneself at someone’s mercy
6. Submit a proposal
7. Call for action
8. Voice a demand
9. Press for change
10. Raise a cry

10 Common Questions About "Petition"

Here are common questions about "petition" to clarify its usage:

1. What is a petition?

A petition is a formal written request made to an authority, often signed by multiple individuals.

2. How can "petition" be used in a sentence?

They organized a petition to improve road safety in their neighborhood.

3. What is the role of a petitioner?

A petitioner is an individual or group submitting a petition to seek action or resolution.

4. Can petitions be submitted online?

Yes, online petitions are increasingly popular and often hosted on platforms like Change.org.

5. What is the purpose of a legal petition?

A legal petition is filed in court to request a ruling or decision on a specific matter.

6. How are petitions used in activism?

Petitions are a key tool in activism, helping to gather support and demonstrate public interest in an issue.

7. What is the difference between a petition and a motion?

A petition is often broader and involves public signatures, while a motion is typically a formal request within legal or organizational contexts.

8. How do you start a petition?

Identify the issue, write a clear request, and gather signatures or support, either physically or online.

9. Are petitions legally binding?

Petitions themselves are not binding but can influence decisions if they demonstrate significant support.

10. What makes a petition effective?

Clarity of purpose, strong public support, and targeting the appropriate authority are key factors for an effective petition.

Conclusion

"Petition" is a formal request used to seek action or resolution, often involving collective support. Its role in advocacy, law, and civic life underscores its importance as a tool for initiating change. Exploring other terms and concepts related to "petition" can further enhance understanding and usage.