request

The word “request” means to ask for something, often politely or formally. In plain terms, to politely ask for something, or the act of asking.

“Request” is pronounced rih-KWEHST (/ɹɪˈkwɛst/ in IPA).

Here is “request” used in a sentence: “Guests may request a late checkout at the front desk.”

Words with a similar meaning to “request” include desire.

Depending on how it is used, “request” can be a verb and a noun.

The word “request” comes from Latin. From Old French requeste, ultimately from Latin requirere, "to seek, ask for" — the same root as "require.".

“Request” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Request” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to ask for something, often politely or formally.

To request is to ask for something politely, leaving the other person room to say no. To demand is to insist forcefully, treating compliance as non-negotiable. A request is a courteous appeal; a demand carries pressure or authority behind it, so the tone is far firmer.

Request sits on the more formal, polite end of asking. In everyday speech people usually say ask, while request appears in official, business, or written contexts — requesting a refund, a meeting, or access. It signals respect and a degree of ceremony that plain asking does not.

You might say, 'She requested a copy of the report,' or 'Passengers are requested to remain seated.' In both cases, someone is politely or formally asking for something to be given or done, rather than simply making conversation or issuing a blunt command.

To request is to ask for something, which the other side may grant or refuse. To require is to need or insist on something as a condition — it must happen. A form might request your name but require your signature before it can be processed.