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Appeasing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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appeasing

[əˈpiːz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

international relations

To bring to a state of peace, quiet, ease, calm, or contentment; pacify; soothe.

Synonyms

calm, mollify, pacify, placate, soothe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
appeasing

Used when trying to bring peace by giving in to demands, often at the expense of one's own principles.

  • The government was criticized for appeasing the protesters by agreeing to all of their demands.
pacify

Used when trying to bring peace to a situation, often involving diplomatic or gentle measures.

  • She gave the baby a bottle to pacify him.
  • The ambassador worked tirelessly to pacify the warring nations.
placate

Used when trying to appease someone who is angry or upset, typically by making concessions.

  • They tried to placate the angry crowd with promises of reform.
  • Offering refunds helped to placate the dissatisfied customers.
soothe

Used when trying to relieve pain, discomfort, or emotional distress.

  • She used an ointment to soothe the burn.
  • His kind words helped to soothe her nerves before the performance.
mollify

Used when trying to make someone less angry or upset, often through soft words or actions.

  • He tried to mollify his critics by offering a public apology.
  • Her kind words helped to mollify the angry customer.
calm

Used to describe making someone or something less agitated or excited.

  • She took deep breaths to calm herself before the speech.
  • The teacher tried to calm the noisy classroom.

Examples of usage

  • His conciliatory speech was aimed at appeasing the tensions between the two countries.
  • The government's decision to increase funding for education was an attempt to appease the public.
  • The company offered a full refund to appease the dissatisfied customers.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'pax,' meaning peace, highlighting its connection to tranquility.
  • In the 1930s, a notable policy called appeasement was used by European leaders to avoid conflict with aggressive nations.
  • Appeasement has a complex history, often associated with diplomatic strategies to maintain peace.

Psychology

  • People often use appeasing behavior as a way to avoid conflict, which can sometimes lead to resentment.
  • Mental health experts note that while appeasing can be helpful in the short term, it may create long-term issues in relationships.
  • Research shows that appeasing someone can trigger a cycle of higher demands, as the initial issue might not be fully resolved.

Literature

  • Many classic novels feature characters who appease others, revealing deeper themes of conflict and resolution.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, protagonists often struggle with appeasing those in power to protect their interests.
  • Fables and parables often teach lessons about the fine balance between appeasing and standing one's ground.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often show characters trying to appease authority figures, providing comedic or dramatic tension.
  • Popular songs sometimes explore themes of appeasement in romantic relationships, reflecting on the desire to keep peace.
  • In television shows, characters may appease friends to avoid conflict, showcasing the dynamics of friendships.

Origin of 'appeasing'

The word 'appeasing' comes from the Middle English word 'appesen', which in turn comes from the Old French word 'apaisier', meaning 'to pacify'. The concept of appeasement has been a common strategy in international relations throughout history, with leaders often attempting to appease their adversaries in order to avoid conflict.

See also: appease, appeasement, unappeasability.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,027 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.