Synonyms for

Appease

Verb / ʌˈpi:z / Another word for appease — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to make someone less angry or upset by giving them what they want

Synonyms & similar words

stay placate pacify mollify quell gruntle assuage lenify gentle propitiate conciliate pacify calm soothe placate mollify conciliate compose still quell allay relieve assuage mitigate alleviate ease diminish reduce decrease lower subside

Synonyms by register

Formal

placate conciliate pacify propitiate

Informal

calm down soothe satisfy mollify

Literary

allay assuage appease

Antonyms

provoke anger incite aggravate enrage irritate antagonize

Common collocations

  • appease the gods
  • appease the public
  • appease the enemy
  • appease hunger
  • appease a child
  • appease demands
  • appease critics

Word family

noun appeasement
verb appease
adjective appeasing

Usage note

Often implies giving in to demands to avoid conflict, which can sometimes be seen as a sign of weakness. It is distinct from genuine reconciliation.

Example sentences

  1. The mother tried to appease her crying baby by giving him a bottle.
  2. The manager appeased the unhappy customer by offering a free meal.
  3. The diplomat attempted to appease the angry protesters by listening to their demands.
  4. The king sought to appease his enemies by offering them a portion of his kingdom.
  5. The employee hoped to appease her boss by working overtime.

Quotes

  • It is easier to appease than to quiet a child.
  • The appetite of the people is generally unquenchable; the more you give, the more they will demand. Once they are appeased, then they will demand more.
  • The only way to appease some people is to let them have everything they want.

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