'propitiate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'propitiatus,' where 'pro-' meant 'forward' and 'pietas' meant 'piety or devotion.'

'propitiatus' transformed into the French word 'propitier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'propitiate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to make favorable,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to appease or pacify.'