imploratory

Imploratory is an adjective that describes something that expresses imploration—an earnest pleading, entreaty, or beseeching. It derives from the verb implore, via the Latin implorare, and is formed with the -atory suffix to indicate relating to or characterized by the action.

In modern English, imploratory is relatively formal and somewhat rare; it most often appears in literary criticism, religious rhetoric, or polished prose. It may describe language, gestures, or tones that convey a strong appeal for mercy, aid, or relief. For example, a speaker might issue an imploratory appeal to the audience, or a character might utter an imploratory plea for help; a look could be described as imploratory when it seeks aid without words.

Imploratory is closely related to, but more specific than, imploring or pleading. It can be contrasted with supplicatory, which emphasizes the act of supplication, and with merely pleading or begging in ordinary speech. The noun form is imploration, and related adjectives include imploring and supplicatory.

Because it is relatively rare outside specialized contexts, many writers substitute more common terms such as imploring, pleading, or beseeching. Nevertheless, imploratory carries a precise nuance of earnest, sometimes desperate entreaty that seeks mercy or assistance.