Definition

Intended to calm someone down or reduce their anger.

Example

The manager's placating tone helped to ease the tension in the room.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I think his placating tone made her even more upset.

Really? I thought he was just trying to help her feel better.

Yeah, but sometimes it feels insincere when someone tries too hard to placate you.

That's true; it can come off as disingenuous.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To calm someone down or make them feel better, especially after they are upset or angry.

Example

She was placating her friend after the argument by offering a sincere apology.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think she was just placating him to avoid an argument.

Yeah, sometimes it's easier to just go along with things.

But do you think that really solves the problem?

Root Explanation

Placating → It is formed from "placare" (meaning to calm or soothe) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "placating" means the action of calming or soothing someone.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'placate' which means to calm someone down — adding '-ing' shows that it's the process of doing that.

Visually Confused Words