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
