appease
UK: əˈpiːz | US: əˈpiːz
vt. to calm or pacify (someone) by yielding to their demands
vt. to relieve or satisfy (a need or desire)
The word "appease" entered English in the 14th century via Old French "apaisier," meaning "to pacify." It combines the Latin prefix "ad-" (toward) with "pax" (peace), reflecting the idea of bringing someone "to peace" by satisfying their demands. Historically, it was used in diplomatic contexts to describe calming tensions, though modern usage often carries a negative connotation of yielding to unreasonable demands.
The king tried to appease the rebels by offering them land.
She appeased her hunger with a small snack.
Parents sometimes appease crying children with toys.
The government’s concessions failed to appease the protesters.
He hoped a sincere apology would appease his angry boss.