# intercession

/ˌɪnɝˈsɛʃən/ (US) · /ˌɪntəsˈɛʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/intercession
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

the act of asking for help or forgiveness on behalf of someone else. It is often used in religious contexts when people pray for others.

For teachers: the act of intervening on behalf of another to obtain a favor, mercy, or relief. Frequently associated with theological contexts where a third party mediates between a deity and a supplicant.

## Examples

- The priest offered a prayer of intercession for the sick.
- The diplomat's intercession eventually led to a ceasefire between the two warring factions.
- In many traditional liturgical practices, the intercession of saints is believed to provide a direct channel for the faithful to seek divine mercy and guidance.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.