supplicate

[ suhp-li-keyt ]

verb (used without object)

, sup·pli·cat·ed, sup·pli·cat·ing.

1. to pray humbly; make humble and earnest entreaty or petition.

verb (used with object)

, sup·pli·cat·ed, sup·pli·cat·ing.

1. to pray humbly to; entreat or petition humbly.

   Synonyms: beseech, solicit, crave, implore

2. to seek or ask for by humble entreaty.

supplicate

/ ˈsʌplɪˌkeɪt /

verb

1. to make a humble request to (someone); plead
2. tr to ask for or seek humbly

Derived Forms

• ˈsuppliˌcatory, adjective

Other Words From

• suppli·cating·ly adverb
• sup·pli·ca·to·ry [suhp, -li-k, uh, -tawr-ee, -tohr-ee], adjective
• non·suppli·cating adjective
• pre·suppli·cate verb (used with object) presupplicated presupplicating
• un·suppli·cated adjective
• un·suppli·cating adjective
• un·suppli·cating·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of supplicate¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin supplicātus “knelt,” past participle of supplicāre “to kneel,” from supplic-, stem of supplex “submissive, suppliant” ( supple ) + -āre, infinitive verb suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of supplicate¹

C15: from Latin supplicāre to beg on one's knees; see supple

Synonym Study

See appeal.

Example Sentences

Gershman called Roberts’ immunity decision “bold and extreme” and reflective of his realization that “his only choice was to supplicate” pro-Trump justices.

From Salon

The MSM was quick to supplicate by temporarily muzzling opinion shows like Morning Joe and pausing Trump critiques, while Democrats pulled the Biden reelection campaign’s ads from TV and appeared to resign themselves to another Trump term.

From Slate

The effort it takes to oppose him is overwhelming and watching the entire Republican establishment willfully deny reality and supplicate themselves to this con man in order to achieve power for themselves is profoundly dispiriting.

From Salon

Namo Buddha, I supplicate the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas of the three times and ten directions to bestow Their blessings upon Your Majesties.

From BBC

Dolan is not strictly “anti-Trump,” but he’s refused to supplicate for Trump’s affection, and he believes the GOP should move on from arguing that the 2020 election was stolen.

From Slate