rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryintercessionPleading for another
noun

intercession

in-ter-SESH-un/ˌɪntərˈseʃn/

Pleading on someone else's behalf, especially in prayer.

The older man's intercession asks the upset shopkeeper to forgive the child.

An older man appeals to an upset shopkeeper on behalf of a child who has broken a flowerpot: he stands between them, gently supports the child, and directs a pleading gesture toward the shopkeeper.
Etymology
interLatinbetween
+cessLatinto go
+ionLatinact or process

The image is of going between parties to mediate. In Christian usage, this became pleading on another person's behalf, the sense behind an intercession.

In context

Matt Fradd67:55
we ask your intercession pray for us
Non-Catholics Can Pray the Rosary, Too...

More examples

  • Her intercession persuades the landlord to give us another week.
  • We ask for your intercession on behalf of our sick neighbor.
  • The service includes intercessions for people affected by the storm.

Forms

intercession · intercessions

intercede verb — To plead on another person's behalf.

intercessory adjective — Involving prayer or pleading for others.

Similar words

advocacy
Active support for someone, not necessarily through personal pleas.
pleading
An earnest appeal that may concern one's own needs.