supplicant
UK: ˈsʌplɪkənt | US: ˈsʌplɪkənt
n. a person who asks or begs for something humbly or earnestly, especially in a religious context.
The word "supplicant" originates from the Latin verb supplicare, meaning "to kneel down or beg humbly," derived from sub (under) + plicare (to fold). The suffix -ant (from Latin -ans) denotes a person performing the action. Historically, supplicants would kneel in submission or prayer, reflecting the word’s core idea of humble entreaty. Over time, it broadened to include any earnest petitioner, often in religious or formal contexts.
The supplicant knelt before the altar, praying for forgiveness.
As a supplicant, she approached the judge with a plea for mercy.
The temple was filled with supplicants offering gifts to the gods.
He played the role of a supplicant, begging for aid in his time of need.
The king listened patiently to the supplicants who sought his favor.