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placatingly

/pləˈkeɪtɪŋli/ adverb · British & US
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What does placatingly mean?

Placatingly is an adverb that describes something intended to soothe or calm a person or situation. It is often used in formal or written contexts to describe a deliberate attempt to calm or soothe, but may also be used more broadly in informal contexts to describe a general sense of calmness or peacefulness. The word is derived from the verb 'to placate', which means to soothe or calm someone or something. Placatingly is often used in conjunction with other words that describe a sense of calmness or peacefulness, such as 'calmly' or 'soothingly'. It is a useful word for describing situations where someone is trying to calm or soothe another person or group, and can be used in a variety of contexts, from business or politics to personal relationships or everyday conversations. Overall, placatingly is a nuanced and subtle word that adds depth and complexity to language.

adverb

Used to describe something that is intended to soothe or calm a person or situation, often in a gentle or conciliatory manner.

Senses
  1. Used to describe something that is intended to soothe or calm a person or situation, often in a gentle or conciliatory manner.
Example

"Her placatingly calm demeanor helped to diffuse the tense atmosphere."

More examples

"Her placatingly calm demeanor helped to diffuse the tense atmosphere."

"The doctor spoke placatingly to the anxious patient."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymology of placatingly

The word placatingly is derived from the verb 'to placate', which comes from the Latin 'placare', meaning 'to soothe' or 'to calm'. The verb 'to placate' has been used in English since the 15th century, and the adverb placatingly has been used since the 17th century. The word is cognate with other English words that describe a sense of calmness or peacefulness, such as 'pacify' and 'calm'.

How placatingly is actually used

In formal or written contexts, placatingly is often used to describe a deliberate attempt to calm or soothe a person or situation. In informal contexts, it may be used more broadly to describe a general sense of calmness or peacefulness.

What's another word for placatingly?

What's the opposite of placatingly?

Rhymes with placatingly