Propitiating

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. The practice involves attempting to appease or win favor from a higher power or authority, often by making amends or conciliating disputes to foster goodwill or avert hostility
2. This concept relates to the endeavor of seeking to soothe or gain the approval of an influential entity, which may include acts aimed at reconciling differences or preventing anger
3. The act refers to the effort made to placate or gain the support of a superior force, often through conciliatory gestures or acts of atonement aimed at ensuring harmony or avoiding conflict

Etymology: "Propitiating" is the present participle of "propitiate", and the verb itself comes from Latin "propitiare", meaning "make favourable". That Latin verb was built on "propitius", an adjective meaning "favourable" or "gracious", and the root sense is one of goodwill extended toward someone who holds power over you. The original idea is not appeasing an enemy but making a superior inclined to look kindly on you. English took the verb from the past participial stem "propitiat-", which is why the Latin base survives inside the modern word. The meaning has stayed close to its origin: a propitiating gesture is one meant to turn a powerful party's mood in your favour, whether that power is a god, a ruler or an offended person.

Synonyms: appeasing, conciliating, placating, satisfying, calming

Antonyms: offending, provoking, irritating, insulting, displeasing