1. [noun] A formal, written request made to an official person or organized body, often containing many signatures.
2. [noun] A compilation of signatures built in order to exert moral authority in support of a specific cause.
3. [noun] (legal) A formal written request for judicial action.
4. [noun] A prayer; a supplication; an entreaty.
5. [verb] To make a request, commonly in written form.
6. [noun] A formal message requesting something that is submitted to an authority.
7. [noun] Reverent petition to a deity.
8. [verb] Write a petition for something to somebody; request formally and in writing.
