intercede

Intercede is a verb meaning to intervene on behalf of another, especially to plead with someone in a position of authority or influence. It can also denote mediation or interposition in a dispute to help reconcile opposing parties. In a secular context, a parent, friend, or diplomat may intercede to secure relief, mercy, or a favorable outcome for someone else.

Intercession is the related noun. An intercessor is a person who intercedes; in religious contexts, intercession often refers to prayers or petitions offered to a deity on behalf of others, and saints are described as intercessors in certain traditions. The term is widely used in Christian contexts to describe Christ or saints who act as mediators between humans and God.

Etymology: Intercede derives from Latin intercedere "to go between," formed from inter- "between" + cedere "to go, yield." It entered English via Old French, with attestations dating to the Middle English period.

Usage and nuances: Intercede emphasizes the act of speaking up or negotiating on another's behalf rather than simply stepping into a conflict. It contrasts with intervene, which focuses more on taking direct action to alter a situation; intercede stresses advocacy, mediation, or petitioning a higher authority.

See also: intercession, intercessor, mediation, advocacy, prayer.