verb \ˈbeg\

: to ask people for money or food


: to ask for (something needed or wanted very much) in a very serious and emotional way


Full Definition of BEG

transitive verb
:  to ask for as a charity
a :  to ask earnestly for :  entreat
b :  to require as necessary or appropriate
:  evade, sidestep <begged the real problems>
intransitive verb
:  to ask for alms
:  to ask earnestly <begged for mercy>
beg the question
:  to elicit a question logically as a reaction or response <the quarterback's injury begs the question of who will start in his place>

Examples of BEG

  1. A homeless man begs on that corner every day.
  2. children begging strangers for food
  3. children begging food from strangers
  4. He begged the doctor for medicine.
  5. She begged him to read the story again.
  6. He begged that she would forgive him.
  7. begging a favor of someone
  8. He's too proud to beg.
  9. Does your dog know any tricks? She knows how to beg.

Origin of BEG

Middle English beggen
First Known Use: 13th century

Synonym Discussion of BEG


Rhymes with BEG



Definition of BEG

begin; beginning
BEG THE QUESTION Defined for Kids


verb \ˈbeg\

Definition of BEG for Kids

:  to ask for money, food, or help as charity <beg in the streets>
:  to ask as a favor in an earnest or polite way :  plead


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