Plead (?), v. t. 1. To discuss, defend, and attempt to maintain by
arguments or reasons presented to a tribunal or person having uthority
to determine; to argue at the bar; as, to plead a cause before a court
or jury.
Every man should plead his own matter.
Sir T. More.
In this sense, argue is more generally used by lawyers.
2. To allege or cite in a legal plea or defense, or for repelling a
demand in law; to answer to an indictment; as, to plead usury; to plead
statute of limitations; to plead not guilty. Kent.
3. To allege or adduce in proof, support, or vendication; to offer in
excuse; as, the law of nations may be pleaded in favor of the rights of
ambassadors. Spenser.