propitiate
verb
To win or regain the favor of a god, spirit, or person by doing something that pleases them; to appease or conciliate.
Etymology
From Latin "propitiatus," past participle of "propitiare" (to make favorable), from "propitius" (favorable, gracious). Originally referred to winning favor from gods through sacrifice.
Examples in Use
- 1.
"Ancient cultures would propitiate the gods with offerings before harvests."
- 2.
"He tried to propitiate his angry wife with flowers and apologies."
- 3.
"The CEO hoped to propitiate investors with optimistic projections."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Many ancient festivals were acts of propitiation. The Roman Parentalia, for example, propitiated ancestors' spirits with offerings of food and drink, believing neglected spirits would cause misfortune.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 10 letters (P, R, O, P, I, T, I, A, T, E)
Scrabble Value: 14 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "PROPITIATE" appears in many related words.
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