placates
|pla-cates|
B2
/pləˈkeɪt/
(placate)
soothing
Etymology
Etymology Information
'placate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'placare', where 'plac-' meant 'to please or soothe.'
Historical Evolution
'placate' changed from Latin past participle 'placatus' (appeased) into English usage (early modern English) as 'placate'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to please or make calm', and over time it evolved into the modern English meaning 'to make someone less angry or hostile.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
third-person singular present tense form of 'placate'.
She placates the upset child with a story.
Synonyms
— (form indicator)
Verb 2
to make (someone) less angry or hostile; to soothe or appease.
The manager placates the angry customer by offering a refund.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/20 15:38