Placatory: meaning, definitions and examples

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placatory

 

[ ˈpleɪ.kə.tɔːr.i ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

expressing regret

The term 'placatory' refers to actions or attitudes designed to appease or soothe someone, often after causing them anger or distress. It suggests a conciliatory effort aimed at restoring harmony or goodwill in a relationship. Such behavior may involve offering apologies or assurances in order to calm a volatile situation. 'Placatory' often describes gestures that are intent on overcoming objections or grievances.

Synonyms

appeasing, conciliatory, pacifying, soothing

Examples of usage

  • She offered a placatory smile to ease the tension.
  • His placatory remarks were meant to diffuse the argument.
  • The manager made a placatory gesture after the employees voiced their concerns.

Translations

Translations of the word "placatory" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apaziguador

🇮🇳 शांतिदायक

🇩🇪 beschwichtigend

🇮🇩 menenangkan

🇺🇦 умиротворювальний

🇵🇱 łagodzący

🇯🇵 和らげる

🇫🇷 apaisant

🇪🇸 apaciguador

🇹🇷 yatıştırıcı

🇰🇷 달래는

🇸🇦 مُسَكِّن

🇨🇿 uklidňující

🇸🇰 upokojujúci

🇨🇳 安抚的

🇸🇮 pomirjujoč

🇮🇸 sátta

🇰🇿 түндіретін

🇬🇪 მშვიდობური

🇦🇿 sakitləşdirici

🇲🇽 apaciguador

Word origin

The word 'placatory' originates from the Latin root 'placare', meaning 'to calm, to appease'. This Latin word is derived from 'placidus', which means 'calm' or 'quiet', highlighting the core intention of placatory actions. The transformation into English occurred in the early 19th century, reflecting a linguistic transition that emphasized the desire to mitigate conflict. The suffix '-ory' indicates a tendency or capacity, thus 'placatory' can be understood as having the quality of soothing or appealing. Over the years, it has been associated with diplomatic efforts, personal relationships, and conflict resolution strategies, emphasizing its relevance in both emotional and social contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,169, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.