Which term means to ask for or request something with sincerity?

The term that best captures the idea of asking for or requesting something with sincerity is "entreat." This word conveys a strong sense of earnestness and heartfelt pleading, often implying that the request is made with great urgency or emotional significance. When someone entreats another person, they are not just making a casual or routine request; rather, they are appealing sincerely and passionately for attention or action.

"Entreat" is derived from the Middle English term that combines elements of pleading and urgency, which reflects the depth of feeling behind the request. It suggests that the speaker feels a strong need or desire for the response from the other person, emphasizing the emotional weight of the request.

While other options like "beg" or "implore" also involve asking for something, they do not fully encompass the same nuance of sincere request tied to earnestness and genuine feeling that "entreat" does. On the other hand, "request" is a more neutral term and lacks the emotional intensity associated with sincere pleading. Thus, "entreat" is the most appropriate choice for describing an earnest and sincere request.