'pacifier' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'pacificare' (via French 'pacifier' and English 'pacify'), where 'pax/pac-' meant 'peace' and 'facere' meant 'to make or bring about'.

'pacifier' developed in English from the verb 'pacify' (borrowed via Middle French 'pacifier') with the agentive/nominal suffix '-er', and later acquired the specific sense of 'a device to soothe infants'.

Initially, related forms meant 'one who makes peace' or 'one who pacifies'; over time a newer specific meaning emerged referring to 'a device used to soothe babies'.