pleading
adj. B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈpɫidɪŋ// UK //plˈiːdɪŋ// plead·ing
adj. showing that you want something very much and feel sad or worried about it. You use this when someone looks hopeful but also a bit desperate.
adj. expressing earnest entreaty or supplication; characterized by a tone of humble request. Often used predicatively after linking verbs such as 'look' or 'seem'.
She gave him a pleading look.
The child made a pleading gesture to his mother.
His pleading tone suggested he had nothing left to lose.
By surface analysis, plead + -ing.
Usage
As an adjective, it describes a tone, look, or manner. As a noun, it refers to the act of making a formal request, especially in a legal context.