supplication

[suhp-li-key-shuhn]

noun

1. an act or instance of supplicating; humble prayer, entreaty, or petition.

supplication

/ ˌsʌplɪˈkeɪʃən /

noun

1. the act of supplicating

2. a humble entreaty or petition; prayer

Other Word Forms

• nonsupplication noun
• presupplication noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of supplication¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Latin supplicātiōn-, stem of supplicātiō; equivalent to supplicate + -ion

Example Sentences

As has been seen in other countries whose democracies have collapsed to authoritarianism and fascism, such anticipatory obedience and other acts of surrender and supplication will, at best, offer only temporary and illusory safety.

From Salon

If Trump decides tomorrow that he's displeased with Johnson's supplication, he can call for the end of Johnson's career, and congressional Republicans will immediately throw the speaker out.

From Salon

He would wear the appropriate religious attire for each setting, sometimes knelt in supplication and on occasion was moved to tears by sermons.

From BBC

In his characteristic manner, the judge mixed commendation, supplication and insinuation, mangling metaphors and whole sentences in service of cutting insights.

From Los Angeles Times

“Two hundred years ago, the Congress of the United States issued a Thanksgiving Proclamation stating that it was ‘the indispensable duty of all nations’ to offer both praise and supplication to God.

From Washington Times