propitious

[ pruh-pish-uhs ]

adjective

1. presenting favorable conditions; favorable:

   propitious weather.

2. indicative of favor; auspicious:

   propitious omens.

3. favorably inclined; disposed to bestow favors or forgive:

   propitious gods.

propitious

/ prəˈpɪʃəs /

adjective

1. favourable; auguring well
2. gracious or favourably inclined

Derived Forms

• proˈpitiously, adverb
• proˈpitiousness, noun

Other Words From

• pro·pitious·ly adverb
• pro·pitious·ness noun
• unpro·pitious adjective
• unpro·pitious·ly adverb
• unpro·pitious·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of propitious¹

1400–50; late Middle English propicius < Latin propitius favorably inclined, propitious, probably equivalent to pro- pro- ¹ + -pit-, combining form of petere to head for, resort to, solicit + -ius adj. suffix; -ous

Word History and Origins

Origin of propitious¹

C15: from Latin propitius well disposed, from prope close to

Example Sentences

A dozen or so arrived at Saunders’ office — at a propitious time, for Luther Tibbets had just written, asking for suggestions for a crop that would grow in Riverside’s climate.

From Los Angeles Times

Former President Trump, who aspires to join their ranks, has followed a similar playbook to make America’s emotional and social climate propitious for autocracy.

From Los Angeles Times

For a grateful Mr. Zelensky, the timing was propitious.

From New York Times

It seemed propitious that “Suffs” would start out, like that other historical fantasia “Hamilton,” at the Public Theater.

From New York Times

I arrived with hours to spare under propitious skies.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• advantageous
• auspicious
• opportune