pacifying

/ˈpæsɪˌfaɪɪŋ/

VERB

1. Bringing peace or restoring order

Causing a place or situation to become peaceful by ending conflict, fighting, violence, anger, or agitation.

1.1. Ending conflict and unrest

Bringing peace or restoring order in a place or situation by reducing hostility, violence, or fighting.

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • agitating
  • antagonizing
  • enflaming
  • inflaming
  • provoking
  • rousing

Examples

  • Diplomats engaged in intensive negotiations with the hope of pacifying the conflicting nations.
  • The authorities introduced measures aimed at pacifying the region after weeks of unrest.

Related Words

1.2. Calming an upset or agitated person

Making someone less angry, anxious, distressed, or excited through gentle words, reassurance, or comforting actions.

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • agitating
  • angering
  • annoying
  • enraging
  • exasperating
  • irritating
  • upsetting

Examples

  • The mother's gentle touch had a pacifying effect on the upset child, calming him instantly.
  • The therapist focused on pacifying the anxious thoughts of her client through mindfulness techniques.

Related Words

VERB

2. Appeasing or satisfying someone

Reducing someone's anger, dissatisfaction, or opposition by meeting their demands, offering concessions, or using conciliatory actions.

2.1. Reducing anger or dissatisfaction

Making someone less angry or dissatisfied by addressing their concerns, satisfying their demands, or offering something they want.

Synonyms

  • appeasing
  • assuaging
  • conciliating
  • gratifying
  • mollifying
  • placating
  • propitiating
  • satisfying

Antonyms

  • aggravating
  • antagonizing
  • angering
  • enraging
  • infuriating
  • offending
  • provoking
  • upsetting

Examples

  • The leader's words were aimed at pacifying the concerns of the worried community members.
  • The company offered compensation to pacify customers affected by the service disruption.

Related Words

2.2. Using soothing or conciliatory behavior

Attempting to reduce hostility or resistance through gentle, agreeable, or persuasive behavior.

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • aggravating
  • confronting
  • antagonizing
  • provoking
  • irritating

Examples

  • She spent the afternoon pacifying the dissatisfied guests with reassuring words and thoughtful gestures.
  • The manager tried pacifying the frustrated client by listening patiently and offering a practical solution.

Related Words

  • flattering
  • ingratiating
  • persuading
  • appeasement
  • conciliation