importune

Imagine a child asking for a cookie not just once, but again and again, even after being told "no." That is the idea behind this word. It means to keep bothering someone with requests or demands. It is more than simply asking; it suggests annoying, steady pressure. You might do this to a friend to get them to go to a concert with you, or a politician might face it from lobbyists asking for support. Persistence can sometimes be a good thing, but this word usually has a negative feel, suggesting that the requests are unwanted and too much.

To importune someone is to persistently and annoyingly urge them to do something, especially when they've already indicated unwillingness. It's not just asking; it's repeatedly asking, even pleading, despite resistance or refusal. The word carries a sense of intrusion and can suggest desperation on the part of the person doing the importuning.

The origins of "importune" lie in words meaning "to be urgent" or "to press upon." Think of it as relentlessly pressing your request upon someone until they feel pressured to comply. Historically, it often described begging for money or favors, but today it can apply to any persistent and unwelcome request.

You might read about a character importuning a king for mercy in a historical novel, or see a news story about citizens importuning their representatives to address an important issue. However, be mindful of the context – while advocating for change isn't inherently negative, how you advocate matters. Constantly badgering someone after they've said no crosses the line into importuning.

So, if someone is relentlessly and annoyingly asking you for something, even after you've made it clear you don't want to give it, they are likely importuning you – and you have every right to politely (or not so politely!) ask them to stop!