One entry found for pacify.

Main Entry: pac·i·fy
Pronunciation: pas--f
Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): -fied; -fy·ing
Etymology: Middle English pacifien "to soothe the anger or disturbance of, make peaceful," from Latin pacificare (same meaning), from pac-, pax "peace" --related to APPEASE, PEACE
1 : to make peaceful or quiet <pacify a crying child>
2 : to restore to a peaceful state : SETTLE, SUBDUE <sent troops to pacify the country>
- pac·i·fi·ca·tion /pas--f-k-shn/ noun
synonyms PACIFY, MOLLIFY, APPEASE, PLACATE mean to calm the feelings of. PACIFY suggests the quieting of persons who are upset or angry <pacify a crying baby with a toy>. MOLLIFY suggests a comforting of hurt feelings <an apology would probably mollify your friend>. APPEASE suggests dealing with another's anger or threats by giving in to demands <some were willing to appease the dictator in order to keep peace>. PLACATE suggests changing anger or bitterness to goodwill <the builders placated the people of the neighborhood by including a playground in their plans>.

Pronunciation Symbols