n. In law: A suit or action; the presentation of a cause of action to the court.n. In a general sense, that which is urged by or on behalf of a litigant, in support of his claim or defense; the contention of either partyn. Specifically, in modern practice: At common law, a document (or in some inferior courts an oral statement) on the defendant's part, denying the allegations of the plaintiffs declaration, or alleging new matter (that is, matter not, shown by the plaintiff's pleading) as cause why the action should not be maintained. In equity, a document alleging new matter as a cause why the defendant should not be required to answer the complainant's billn. In Scots law, a short and concise note of the grounds on which the action or defense is to be maintained, without argumentn. That which is alleged in support, justification, or defense; an urgent argument; a reason; a pleading; an excuse; an apology: as, a plea for the reduction of taxation; a plea for rationalism.n. Pretext; pretense.n. Proposition; proposal.n. A dispute or controversy; a quarrel.n. Another litigation elsewhere, on the same subject, and between the same parties, or between the creditor and a third party sought to be held for the same debt. When used in this sense it is commonly in reference to the question whether arrest in one action is a satisfaction or bar to the other.n. 2. Excuse, etc. See apology.