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Propitiation: meaning, definitions and examples

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propitiation

 

[ prəˌpɪʃiˈeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious practice

Propitiation refers to the act of appeasing or pacifying a deity, spirit, or person in order to win their favor or avert their wrath. It is often associated with offerings, sacrifices, or rituals that aim to restore goodwill and harmony. In many religions, propitiatory acts are deemed necessary to ensure blessings or forgiveness. This concept underscores the human desire to mend relationships with the divine or those in authority.

Synonyms

appeasement, pacification, placation

Examples of usage

  • The tribe performed rituals of propitiation to ensure a good harvest.
  • In some cultures, propitiation involves offering gifts to angry spirits.
  • The ancient practice of propitiation often included animal sacrifices.
  • Propitiation is a common theme in many religious texts.

Translations

Translations of the word "propitiation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 propiciação

🇮🇳 प्रायश्चित्त

🇩🇪 Sühne

🇮🇩 pendamaian

🇺🇦 умилостивлення

🇵🇱 ubłaganie

🇯🇵 和解

🇫🇷 propitiation

🇪🇸 propiciación

🇹🇷 yatıştırma

🇰🇷 화해

🇸🇦 استرضاء

🇨🇿 usmíření

🇸🇰 zmiernenie

🇨🇳 赎罪

🇸🇮 pomiritev

🇮🇸 sátt

🇰🇿 жазалау

🇬🇪 შეფასება

🇦🇿 yad etmə

🇲🇽 propiciación

Word origin

The term 'propitiation' originates from the Latin word 'propitiatio', which is derived from 'propitiare', meaning 'to make favorable'. This Latin term is formed from 'propitius', meaning 'favorable', which itself has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European term *pro-, meaning 'for', and *pet-, meaning 'to seek'. The concept has been integral to various religious practices throughout history, reflecting humanity's quest for reconciliation with the divine. The use of the word in English can be traced back to the late Middle Ages, where it began to be adopted in theological discussions regarding atonement and reconciliation in the context of Christian doctrine. The word encapsulates the complex relationship between humans and the divine, illustrating the lengths to which individuals and communities will go to restore peace and favor.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,216, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.