Supplications Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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supplications

[ˌsʌplɪˈkeɪʃənz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

religious prayers

Supplications are humble prayers or petitions made to God.

Synonyms

invocations, petitions, prayers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
supplications

This word is often used in a religious or formal context to describe earnest or humble requests, especially in prayer.

  • He fell to his knees in supplication, begging for divine intervention.
  • Her supplications were filled with hope and desperation.
prayers

This word is typically used to describe personal or communal communication with a deity, often involving requests, thanksgiving, or praise. It is most commonly associated with religious practices.

  • She said a prayer of gratitude before going to bed.
  • The congregation offered prayers for the well-being of the community.
petitions

This word is usually used in a legal or formal context to describe requests made to an authority, often in writing. It can also be less formal, referring to requests made by a group of people to address a particular issue.

  • They submitted a petition to the city council for better public transportation.
  • Her petition for clemency was heard by the governor.
invocations

This term is used to refer to the act of calling upon a deity, spirit, or higher power for assistance or as part of a ceremony.

  • The priest began the ceremony with an invocation to the gods.
  • His speech included an invocation for peace and unity.

Examples of usage

  • He spent the night in supplication, praying for guidance.
  • Her supplications for peace were heard and answered.
Context #2 | Noun

formal requests

Supplications can also refer to formal requests or appeals made to someone in authority.

Synonyms

appeals, pleas, requests.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
supplications

Used in a religious or very earnest context. Typically refers to humble and devout requests often made in prayer.

  • She fell to her knees in supplications, asking for divine intervention
requests

Used in everyday situations. It refers to asking for something politely or formally without the sense of desperation or formality seen in the other words.

  • Could you please consider my request for a day off next week?
appeals

Used in formal or legal contexts, or when seeking help or support. It suggests a strong and urgent call for assistance.

  • He made an appeal to the court to reconsider the decision
pleas

Used in urgent or desperate situations, often portraying a sense of urgency or emotional intensity. It might also have a legal connotation where it refers to a formal statement by a defendant.

  • Her pleas for help went unanswered

Examples of usage

  • The citizens made supplications to the government for aid.
  • The supplication for a grant was finally approved.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, supplications are part of daily rituals, where individuals ask for blessings.
  • Across religions, believers often make supplications to a higher power, reflecting their needs and desires.
  • In ancient Rome, public supplications were common, often made during festivals or times of crisis.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that expressing needs can lead to improved mental well-being, as it fosters connection with others.
  • When people make supplications, they often experience a release of stress, feeling lighter after asking.
  • The act of requesting help can improve self-esteem, especially if the request is met positively.

Literature

  • Supplications often appear in literature, highlighting a character's vulnerability and need for assistance.
  • Famous texts, like the Bible, contain numerous examples of supplications, rich with emotional depth.
  • Poets often use the imagery of supplication to express yearning for love, peace, or understanding.

Pop Culture

  • In modern films, characters often engage in supplications during critical moments, symbolizing their emotional state.
  • Social media trends sometimes feature 'supplication memes', where users humorously ask for things they desire.
  • Songs often incorporate themes of supplication, expressing longing or the need for connection in relationships.

Origin of 'supplications'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'supplicare', meaning 'to plead or humbly ask'.
  • In medieval times, it was often used in religious contexts, referring to prayerful requests.
  • The suffix '-ation' implies a process, so it relates to the act of asking respectfully.

The word 'supplication' comes from the Latin word 'supplicatio', which means a humble request or prayer. The concept of supplication has been present in various religious and cultural traditions throughout history, as a way for individuals to seek divine intervention or assistance in times of need.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,092, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.