Propitiate

Verb

Definition: Win or regain the favor of (a god, spirit, or person) by doing something that pleases them.

Synonyms: Appease, Placate, Conciliate

Antonyms: Provoke, Antagonize

Examples:

The villagers offered a sacrifice to propitiate the angry deity.
He tried to propitiate his boss by completing the project ahead of schedule.

Mnemonics:

"Pro" in propitiate indicates doing something in favor of someone.
Think of "pro-PET-iate", petting a dog to make it happy.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "propitiate" comes from the Latin word "propitiare", which means "to appease" or "to make favorable". It has its roots in the Latin word "propius", meaning "favorable" or "kind".

Historical Usage:

The concept of propitiating gods or spirits can be traced back to ancient religious practices in various cultures.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Propitiate the wrath of"

Explanation:

To take actions to calm or appease someone's anger or rage.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "propitiate" with "sacrifice" or "worship".

Explanation:

While making sacrifices or engaging in worship may be one way to propitiate a god or spirit, the act of propitiation itself refers to the action of pleasing or appeasing, rather than the specific method used to achieve it.