Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Advocate \Ad"vo*cate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Advocated}; p. pr. &
   vb. n. {Advocating}.] [See {Advocate}, n., {Advoke}, {Avow}.]
   To plead in favor of; to defend by argument, before a
   tribunal or the public; to support, vindicate, or recommend
   publicly.

         To advocate the cause of thy client.     --Bp.
                                                  Sanderson
                                                  (1624).

         This is the only thing distinct and sensible, that has
         been advocated.                          --Burke.

         Eminent orators were engaged to advocate his cause.
                                                  --Mitford.