1. A person who makes a humble plea or request, especially to someone in authority. This is the most common meaning. It implies a sense of desperation or urgency, as the person is begging for something they desperately need.
* Example: The villagers were suppliants at the king's feet, begging for mercy.
2. Characterized by or expressing a humble plea or request. This meaning describes the act of supplication itself.
* Example: The suppliant tone of her voice was evident as she asked for a second chance.
The word "suppliant" is derived from the Latin "supplicare," which means "to beseech" or "to beg."