Supplicating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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supplicating
[ˈsʌplɪˌkeɪtɪŋ ]
Definitions
prayer
Making a humble plea or request to someone in a position of power or authority.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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supplicating |
Used in formal or religious contexts to express a humble plea to a higher power. It often involves a deeper sense of humility and submission.
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beseech |
Used when earnestly asking someone to do something. This term is often seen in literary or dramatic contexts.
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implore |
Used in emotional contexts where someone is begging with a sense of desperation or urgency. It often has a stronger emotional weight.
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entreat |
Commonly used in both formal and informal settings when earnestly requesting or urging someone. It conveys a sense of pleading but can be less dramatic than 'beseech'.
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Examples of usage
- He was supplicating to the king for mercy.
- She was supplicating for forgiveness.
- They were supplicating for help.
religious
To pray earnestly and humbly to a deity or higher being.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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supplicating |
Used in situations where one is humbly begging or asking earnestly, often in a religious or deeply sincere context.
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petition |
Used when formally requesting an action from an authority or organized body, such as a government or institution.
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solicit |
Used when formally or persistently asking for or trying to obtain something, often in a professional or business context. Sometimes, it carries a negative connotation if associated with unwelcome requests or offers.
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plead |
Used in both legal contexts and everyday situations where someone is urgently asking or arguing for something. There can be a sense of desperation or strong emotional appeal.
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Examples of usage
- The devotees were supplicating to the gods for a good harvest.
- She was supplicating for guidance in her prayers.
- They were supplicating for blessings.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Religious Context
- Many religious practices involve supplication, especially in prayer, where individuals ask for divine assistance.
- In Christianity, it is common to see supplications made during Mass, reflecting deep personal need or community support.
- In Islam, supplication ('dua') is a significant part of daily prayers, underlining the importance of turning to a higher power in need.
Psychology
- Studies show that requesting help can stimulate social bonds, reinforcing connections between people.
- People who make humble requests often receive more positive responses, as they communicate trust and vulnerability.
- The act of supplicating can evoke feelings of empathy in others, which may lead to increased willingness to assist.
Literature
- In many classic stories, characters often resort to supplication when facing overwhelming odds, demonstrating their humility.
- Shakespeare frequently explored themes of supplication, using it to convey desperation and hope in his plays.
- In epic poetry, heroes might supplicate to deities for guidance or support before embarking on their quests.
Cultural Practices
- In various cultures, supplicating can involve specific rituals, such as bowing or presenting offerings to show respect.
- Some Indigenous cultures incorporate supplication into ceremonies that connect with nature and ancestors, asking for guidance and blessings.
- In diplomatic contexts, leaders may use supplicating gestures to signal sincerity when seeking cooperation or pardon.
Origin of 'supplicating'
Main points about word origin
- The word has roots in the Latin word 'supplicare', which means to kneel down or make a humble request.
- In Old French, it transformed into 'supplicacion', maintaining the sense of earnest pleading or request.
- Historically, kneeling has been a physical expression of humility, which ties back to the word's origins.
The word 'supplicate' comes from the Latin word 'supplicare', which means 'to kneel down' or 'to beg earnestly'. The act of supplicating has been a common practice in various religious and cultural traditions throughout history, as a way to express humility, reverence, and a deep sense of need or desire. It is often associated with seeking divine intervention or favor in times of difficulty or need.
See also: supplicant, supplication.