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
Representatives for Stevens, who is identified in congressional profiles as a Protestant, did not respond to requests for comment. ABC News, 31 July 2026 Since the property is already zoned for commercial activity, the business owners won’t have to come before the City Council with any rezone requests. Taylor O'Connor 31, Kansas City Star, 31 July 2026
Verb
To request a waiver, file Form 5329 and explain the circumstances. Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 Star defensive tackle Vita Vea, meanwhile, requested a trade from the Bucs after also failing to reach a long-term extension. Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for request
Recent Examples of Synonyms for request
Noun
  • Police will answer questions about the shootings at a later news conference, likely next week, Garcia said.
    Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 July 2026
  • Phillips may no longer be the focus of the ethics inquiry, but he could still be asked to answer questions or supply documents as the committee determines if Collins violated any laws or rules.
    Tia Mitchell, AJC.com, 27 July 2026
Noun
  • The demand for reliable information, effective communication, meaningful employment and technology that enables full participation in daily life will not.
    Keely Cat-Wells, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • Earlier this week, as the mostly Gen-Z protesters tried the bring their demands to the parliament building at the heart of the world’s biggest democracy, they were met with tear gas and police violence, struck with sticks and batons.
    Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 22 July 2026
Verb
  • Rhaenyra keeps him chained, orders him to stay in the Red Keep with no way to blow off any steam.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
  • In a civil lawsuit against her medical providers, Clancy said a voice in her head ordered her to kill the children and herself.
    Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 26 July 2026
Verb
  • The Willow Springs initiative seeks to establish Goodwood as a reliable, annual car event in Southern California, fostering a similar blend of old-world charm and modern passion.
    Michael Teo Van Runkle, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • The development team also sought to address concerns about traffic at the intersection of Linder Road and South Trout Road.
    Noah Daly August 1, Idaho Statesman, 1 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Phillips may no longer be the focus of the ethics inquiry, but he could still be asked to answer questions or supply documents as the committee determines if Collins violated any laws or rules.
    Tia Mitchell, AJC.com, 27 July 2026
  • Angelo mourned his brother, who was just 14 when he was fatally shot by Colt, and asked the court to sentence Colt to life in prison without parole.
    Alaa Elassar, CNN Money, 27 July 2026
Noun
  • Kansas City and Independence’s health departments have not responded to inquiries as of Wednesday.
    Joseph Hernandez, Kansas City Star, 29 July 2026
  • Each year, the department faces lawsuits cataloging records inquiries that the LAPD failed to respond to by the 10-day or 24-day deadline.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026
Noun
  • That jumps from his previous $45 million average and pushes him to the top of the quarterback market.
    Pete Sweeney, Kansas City Star, 31 July 2026
  • The company headquartered in Toronto is one of a number of banks trying to grow in a market dominated by the region’s Big Three banks — Bank of America, Truist and Wells Fargo.
    Chase Jordan July 31, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 2026
Verb
  • More than 40 weekly fitness experiences invite guests to move with intention, from sunrise yoga and Pilates sessions to high-energy strength and conditioning classes led by expert instructors.
    Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 31 July 2026
  • Last week, state officials were invited to a meeting with community leaders to discuss a path forward.
    DJ Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 30 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Request.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/request. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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