pacifier
|pac/i/fi/er|
🇺🇸
/ˈpæsɪˌfaɪər/
🇬🇧
/ˈpæsɪˌfaɪə/
calming device
Etymology
'pacifier' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'pacificare,' where 'pax' meant 'peace' and 'facere' meant 'to make.'
'pacificare' transformed into the French word 'pacifier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'pacifier' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'to make peace,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a device for soothing babies' or 'a person who calms situations.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a device, usually made of rubber or plastic, that a baby sucks on to soothe themselves.
The baby calmed down as soon as she was given her pacifier.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a person or thing that pacifies or calms a situation.
The mediator acted as a pacifier during the heated debate.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45