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 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

The windows do away with the plaintive or supplicating figures more common to Christian stained glass.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From BBC

From noon to midnight, it is alive with the buzz of crowded restaurants, supplicating panhandlers, weaving motorcycles, and pushy vendors.

From The Verge