What does petition mean?
A petition is a formal request directed to someone with authority, such as a government, court, company, or public body. It typically asks for a decision, remedy, permission, or change, and it may be submitted by one person or by many. A petition signed by a large number of people also functions as a public demonstration of concern or support, giving a demand collective visibility. The word appears in practical contexts such as filing a petition, signing a petition, or bringing a case before a court. Although “petition” is related to the broader idea of requesting or appealing, it usually suggests a written and formal process. Its importance lies in its ability to turn individual concerns into an organized demand for action.
A formal written request to an authority or organization, especially one seeking a change, remedy, or official action; also a collective public appeal.
"She submitted a petition requesting a review of the decision."
A collective petition is commonly emphasized by the number of people who have signed it.
To make a formal request to an authority or organization, typically in writing and often asking for a change or remedy.
"Local residents petitioned the council to preserve the historic building."
The verb usually implies a formal appeal to an authority rather than an informal request.
The plural is used for individual formal requests or for separate documents containing multiple signatures.
"The organization submitted several petitions to different departments."
A petition begins as a request, but when enough people sign it, it becomes a public voice powerful enough to demand attention.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does petition come from?
The word comes through Old French from Latin petitio, a formal request or appeal derived from petere, meaning “to seek,” “ask for,” or “approach.” The same Latin root underlies words such as appetite, competitor, perpetual, and impetus. The English sense developed from a formal legal or governmental request into the modern sense of a written public appeal.
Related word forms
How petition is actually used
In everyday use, “petition” often emphasizes a formal or collective appeal. In legal contexts, it can refer specifically to a written application to a court and may involve prescribed procedures, deadlines, or particular forms.