Definition
Pacify means to calm down, soothe, or make peaceful. It refers to the act of easing or resolving a conflict or disturbance by reducing tension or aggression through peaceful means.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Verb
Synonyms
Appease, mollify, placate, soothe, calm, quell, tranquilize, allay, alleviate, assuage, conciliate, mitigate
Antonyms
Provoke, aggravate, inflame, incite, agitate, disturb
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | pacifiers, pacifications, pacifier, pacification, peace, peaces |
| Verb | pacifying, pacify, pacifies, pacified |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The mediator worked tirelessly to find a middle ground and pacify the conflicting parties, leading to a peaceful resolution of the dispute.
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The soothing music and gentle massage helped pacify the fussy baby and lull them into a restful sleep.
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The government deployed additional security forces to pacify the rioting crowd and restore order in the city.
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The leader’s sincere apology and commitment to address the grievances of the people helped pacify the public anger and restore trust in the government.
Usage
Pacify is a term that is used to describe the act of calming or soothing a person or group of people who are angry, upset, or agitated. It can also refer to the act of resolving a conflict or disturbance by reducing tension or aggression through peaceful means. The word is derived from the Latin word “pax,” which means peace.
The prefix “pac-” is often used in words that convey the sense of peacefulness, tranquility, or calming, while the suffix “-ify” is used to indicate the act of making or causing something to be a certain way. Pacify is often used in the context of conflict resolution, where it is necessary to calm an agitated or upset person or group of people. It can also be used in situations where it is necessary to reduce the severity or impact of a negative emotion or situation.
Pacify can be used in various contexts, including personal relationships, parenting, politics, and law enforcement. It can involve using different techniques such as persuasion, negotiation, or force, depending on the situation. In some cases, pacifying someone may require compromise or concessions, while in others it may require a more assertive approach.
Overall, pacify is a term that connotes the sense of calming, soothing, or making peaceful. Its various forms and variations can help to provide a more nuanced understanding of its meaning and usage in different contexts.