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pacify

verb

/ˈpasɪfʌɪ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of pacify

To calm, sooth or bring peace and tranquility to a person, group, or situation, often by reducing agitation, conflict, or unrest.
"The parents bought an ice-cream to pacify their screaming child."

Detailed meaning of pacify

When someone 'pacifies' another, they aim to restore or maintain a state of calm and order, often through gentle persuasion, diplomacy, or the resolution of underlying issues. This term conveys the idea of alleviating tension or hostility, thereby reducing the potential for further conflict or disturbances. 'Pacify' is frequently used in contexts related to conflict resolution, diplomacy, parenting, or restoring harmony in communities. It emphasizes the role of mediation and peaceful methods in mitigating disputes or restoring a sense of well-being and security.

Example sentences containing pacify

1. Her emollient manner helped to pacify the irate customer.
2. Seemingly nothing would pacify the enraged motorist.
3. Military action was needed to pacify the region.
4. He issued an apology in order to pacify the seething media.
5. They made a reassuring announcement to pacify the furious crowd.
6. The government sent in peacekeepers to pacify the conflict-ridden region.

History and etymology of pacify

The verb 'pacify' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'pacare,' which means 'to appease' or 'to make peaceful.' 'Pacare' itself is related to 'pax,' which means 'peace.' Therefore, 'pacify' originally meant to bring peace and tranquility by calming, soothing, or appeasing a person, group, or situation. Over time, this term was adopted into English, retaining its fundamental meaning of reducing agitation, conflict, or unrest to establish a state of calm and peacefulness. The etymology of 'pacify' underscores its role in promoting harmony and reconciliation, emphasizing the act of quelling disturbances and restoring a sense of peace and order.

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Further usage examples of pacify

1. The manager tried to pacify the angry customer by offering a sincere apology.
2. She tried to pacify him by explaining the situation in more detail.
3. The government's announcement was intended to pacify the protesters.
4. He tried to pacify her by offering to help with the chores.
5. The CEO's apology was an attempt to pacify the employees after the company's recent mistakes.
6. The therapist used calming words and a gentle touch to pacify the anxious patient.
7. The diplomat tried to pacify the two countries by negotiating a compromise.
8. The teacher tried to pacify the upset student by offering extra help after class.
9. She tried to pacify him by agreeing to his demands.
10. The company's generous offer was intended to pacify the shareholders.
11. The coach tried to pacify the upset player by reminding them of their past successes.
12. The diplomat worked tirelessly to pacify the tensions between the two nations.
13. A warm cup of tea can pacify your nerves after a long day.
14. Her soothing words helped pacify the upset child.
15. The police used negotiation tactics to pacify the protestors.
16. The leader's speech aimed to pacify the anxious crowd.
17. Music has the power to pacify even the most troubled souls.
18. They offered a compromise to pacify the conflicting parties.
19. The presence of a mediator helped pacify the heated discussion.
20. A sincere apology can pacify hurt feelings.
21. The ceasefire agreement was a crucial step to pacify the region.
22. The teacher used humor to pacify the unruly class.
23. Efforts to pacify the restless community were met with success.
24. The mayor's actions sought to pacify concerns about public safety.