Supplicate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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supplicate

[ˈsʌplɪˌkeɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

formal

To make a humble and earnest request; to pray or beg earnestly.

Synonyms

beg, beseech, implore, plead.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
supplicate

Use in formal or religious settings where a person humbly asks for something, often from a higher authority or deity.

  • The monks would supplicate for peace during their evening prayers
beg

Commonly used in everyday conversation; it implies a desperate need or request for something. Sometimes has a negative connotation as it may imply a lack of dignity or self-sufficiency.

  • He had no choice but to beg for food after losing his job
implore

Conveys an intense, almost desperate plea for help or mercy. Often used when someone is seeking emotional or critical assistance.

  • She implored him not to leave her in her time of need
beseech

Used in literary or dramatic contexts to express urgent and earnest requests. Adds a tone of deep emotion and seriousness.

  • The villagers would beseech their leader to protect them from the invaders
plead

Appropriate in legal settings or situations involving a strong emotional request. Can indicate a formal or somewhat desperate appeal.

  • The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges

Examples of usage

  • She would supplicate the gods for mercy in times of trouble.
  • The refugees supplicated for food and shelter.
Context #2 | Verb

religious

To make a religious petition or entreaty, especially to a deity.

Synonyms

beseech, entreat, invoke, pray.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
supplicate

Formal and solemn requests, often in a religious or serious setting.

  • The villagers would supplicate the gods for rain during the drought
  • She supplicated the board for a second chance
pray

Religious or spiritual context, addressing a deity or higher power.

  • They gathered to pray for peace
  • She prayed to God for strength
invoke

Appealing to a higher power, authority, or idea for assistance, often in a formal or legal context.

  • He invoked the ancient laws to defend his actions
  • She invoked the name of justice in her speech
entreat

Polite and earnest requests, typically in a formal or literary context.

  • I entreat you to reconsider your decision
  • She entreated her friend to join her in the important meeting
beseech

Urgent and heartfelt requests, often emotional and desperate.

  • The child beseeched his mother to stay a little longer
  • He beseeched the audience to listen to his plea for help

Examples of usage

  • The priest would supplicate on behalf of the congregation.
  • The monks supplicated for peace in their prayers.

Translations

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Origin of 'supplicate'

The word 'supplicate' comes from the Latin word 'supplicare', which means 'to kneel down' or 'to beseech'. The act of supplication has been a common practice in various cultures and religions throughout history, often involving gestures of humility and earnest pleading. The concept of supplication reflects the human desire to seek help, mercy, or divine intervention in times of need.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,836 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.