First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1please
verb \ˈplēz\
: to make (someone) happy or satisfied
: to make a choice about what to do, have, etc.
pleasedpleas·ing
Full Definition of PLEASE
intransitive verb
1
: to afford or give pleasure or satisfaction
3
archaic : to have the kindness <will you please to enter the carriage — Charles Dickens>
transitive verb
1
: to give pleasure to : gratify
2
: to be the will or pleasure of <may it please Your Majesty>
— pleas·er \ˈplē-zər\ noun
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Origin of PLEASE
Middle English plesen, from Anglo-French plaisir, pleisir, pleire, from Latin placēre; akin to Latin placare to placate and perhaps to Greek plak-, plax flat surface — more at fluke
2please
adverb
—used to ask for something in a polite way
—used to show that a request is serious or important
—used as a polite way of saying yes
Full Definition of PLEASE
1
—used as a function word to express politeness or emphasis in a request <please come in>
2
—used as a function word to express polite affirmation <like some tea? Please>
3
—used as a function word to express scornful disagreement, disapproval, or disbelief <you believe that? Oh, please>
See please defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of PLEASE
1667
PLEASED Defined for Kids
1please
verb \ˈplēz\
pleasedpleas·ing
Definition of PLEASE for Kids
1
: to make happy or satisfied <The gift pleased him.>
2please
adverb
Definition of PLEASE for Kids
—used to show politeness or emphasis in requesting or accepting <May I please be excused?> <Attention, please!> <More milk? Yes, please.>
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Next Word in the Dictionary: pleasednessPrevious Word in the Dictionary: pleasantryAll Words Near: please
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