request 1 of 2

Definition of requestnext
1
as in question
an act or instance of asking for information the medical columnist is unable to answer individual requests for specific information on various disorders

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in demand
the state of being sought after especially for purchase reliable babysitters are much in request, especially on weekends

Synonyms & Similar Words

request

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word request distinct from other similar verbs?

The words ask and solicit are common synonyms of request. While all three words mean "to seek to obtain by making one's wants known," request implies greater formality and courtesy.

requests the pleasure of your company

In what contexts can ask take the place of request?

While in some cases nearly identical to request, ask implies no more than the statement of the desire.

ask a favor of a friend

When is it sensible to use solicit instead of request?

The words solicit and request are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, solicit suggests a calling attention to one's wants or desires by public announcement or advertisement.

a letter soliciting information

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of request
Noun
Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Eric Sullivan, Scientific American, 9 June 2026 Neither of the two responded to a Miami Herald request for comment on Tuesday. Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 9 June 2026
Verb
Other prediction market companies requested more radical changes. Dan Bernstein, Sportico.com, 10 June 2026 City of Trinidad responds to request for comment CyberGuy requested comment from the City of Trinidad. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for request
Recent Examples of Synonyms for request
Noun
  • Iran’s diplomatic delegation to the United Nations did not immediately return a request for comment, and the White House did not immediately reply to questions from CNN.
    Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 13 June 2026
  • As is, the agreement does not resolve the question of Iran’s nuclear program, according to Aragchi, who said nuclear matters would be negotiated further down the line.
    Bart Jansen, USA Today, 13 June 2026
Noun
  • The official said Iran would be relieved of certain economic sanctions by the United States for following through on demands outlined in the memorandum of understanding.
    Bart Jansen, USA Today, 13 June 2026
  • This includes streaming video on demand, linear television and studio production, distribution and development.
    Savannah Sicurella, AJC.com, 13 June 2026
Verb
  • Guests can also order customized barrel heads, or lids, to take home.
    Arati Menon, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 June 2026
  • Under pressure from the officer on the phone, Sandra, her fiancé, and other employees at the establishment are ordered to put Becky through a series of increasingly exploitative and humiliating experiences — all in the name of upholding the law.
    Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 6 June 2026
Verb
  • If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 12 June 2026
  • My Power Alpha Foundation Academies did not respond to multiple emails and phone calls seeking comment.
    Peter D'Oench, CBS News, 12 June 2026
Verb
  • According to sources, Thomas was asked to appear as well but ultimately decided not to participate.
    Joe Otterson, Variety, 12 June 2026
  • He was confronted with the accusation on the course and was asked to leave, the outlet reported.
    Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 12 June 2026
Noun
  • The probe is still ongoing, as is a police inquiry whose findings were due two months ago.
    Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 11 June 2026
  • The investigation is led by prosecutor Paolo Storari, who also has spearheaded inquiries into sweatshops supplying luxury brands.
    Colleen Barry, Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • The Shanghai Remakes event, organized by Spain’s Institute of Cinematography and Audiovisual Arts (ICAA), will see each company talk up the Asian market remake potential of their title for 10 minutes.
    John Hopewell, Variety, 12 June 2026
  • For those looking to balance convenience, affordability and design, Firmoo represents one of the more practical options available on the market today.
    Footwear News, Footwear News, 12 June 2026
Verb
  • The rooms are filled with neutral colors, inviting relaxation and recharging.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 June 2026
  • But the memoir still invites scrutiny for its apparent contradictions.
    Julia Terruso, Time, 11 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Request.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/request. Accessed 14 Jun. 2026.

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