ETYM Old Eng. plee, plai, plait, from Old Fren. plait, plaid, plet, Late Lat. placitum judgment, decision, assembly, court, from Latin placitum that which is pleasing, an opinion, sentiment, from placere to please. Related to Please, Placit, Plead.
1. An answer indicating why a suit should be dismissed.
2. (Law) A defendant's answer by a factual matter (as distinguished from a demurrer).