Plea (noun)

1. A formal statement made in a court of law in which an accused person states their innocence or guilt.
2. A request or appeal for something, such as forgiveness or help.
3. An earnest request for something, such as help or mercy.

Origin:

Middle english: from old french plait, from latin placitum "something agreed upon", from placere "to please".

Examples:

1. He entered a plea of not guilty.
2. She made a plea for leniency.
3. The defendant entered a plea of guilty.
4. He made a plea for help.
5. She heard a plea for mercy.