petition

Universal Words noun, verb noun 1 ~ (against / for sth) a written document signed by a large number of people that asks sb in a position of authority to do or change sth: a petition against experiments on animals * The workers are getting up (= starting) a petition for tighter safety standards. * Councillors were presented with a petition calling for more money to be spent on policing the area. 2 (law) an official document asking a court of law to take a particular course of action: a bankruptcy petition * Her husband has already filed a petition for divorce. 3 (formal) a formal prayer to God or request to sb in authority verb 1 ~ for / against sth