1. a formal written request, typically one signed by many people, appealing to authority with respect to a particular cause
2. a formal application made to a court of law requesting judicial action of some character
Usage: legal

1. to make or present a formal request to (an authority) with respect to a particular cause
2. to make a formal application to (a court) requesting judicial action
Usage: legal

Examples

• The students started a petition to change the school lunch menu.
• Over 10,000 people signed the petition against the new highway.
• The lawyer filed a petition with the court requesting a new trial.
• Citizens petitioned the city council for better street lighting.
• They decided to petition the government for tax reform.
• The divorce petition was submitted to the family court.
• Residents petitioned for a stop sign at the dangerous intersection.