Appeal

Definition

Appeal can function as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a request for help, sympathy, or support, or an attempt to obtain a favorable decision. As a verb, it means to make a serious or urgent request or to seek a change in a formal decision.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈpil/
• Respelling: uh-PEEL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈpiːl/
• Respelling: uh-PEEL

The pronunciation of "appeal" is consistent in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "appeal" originates from the Latin "appellare," meaning "to address or call upon." It entered Middle English through Old French "apel" as a term meaning "call to a higher authority," reflecting its use in legal and formal contexts.

Derivatives

• Appealing (adjective)
• Appealability (noun)
• Appealable (adjective)
• Reappeal (verb)
• Appellant (noun)

Synonyms

• Request
• Plea
• Petition

Antonyms

• Refusal
• Denial
• Rejection

Usage

The term "appeal" is frequently used in legal and formal contexts to describe the act of making a formal request or seeking a change in a decision, as in "The defendant filed an appeal to overturn the verdict."

Related Terms

• Petition: A formal request appealing to authority.
• Plea: An earnest request or appeal, especially in legal contexts.
• Attraction: Something appealing or desirable to others.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A request for aid, support, or sympathy: Used to describe a call for help or support.
  • Example: "Her appeal for donations was successful."
• A formal request to a higher authority for a decision reversal: Refers to seeking a review or change in a judgment, especially in a legal setting.
  • Example: "The lawyer filed an appeal against the ruling."

Verb

• To make a serious or urgent request: Used when someone seeks aid or understanding in an important matter.
  • Example: "They appealed to the community for support."
• To seek a reversal of a legal decision: Refers to requesting a review of a judgment or ruling.
  • Example: "The defendant plans to appeal the decision."