conciliatory

UK: kənˈsɪliətəri | US: kənˈsɪliətɔːri

Definition

  1. adj. intended to placate or reconcile

  2. adj. showing willingness to resolve conflict

Structure
conciliat <reconcile>ory <adjective suffix>
Etymology

conciliatory = conciliat<reconcile> + ory<adjective suffix>

  1. conciliat (from Latin conciliatus, past participle of conciliare "to bring together, unite, win over," from con- "together" + calare "to call")

    • Modern meaning: Relating to reconciliation or pacification.

  2. ory (from Latin -orius, forming adjectives indicating function or tendency)

    • Modern meaning: Suffix meaning "pertaining to" or "characterized by."

Etymology Origin:
The word conciliatory traces back to Latin conciliare, meaning "to unite" or "win over," combining con- (together) and calare (to call). It evolved through Old French conciliateur into English, retaining its core sense of fostering agreement. The suffix -ory transforms the verb into an adjective, emphasizing a tendency toward reconciliation. Historically, it reflects diplomacy—literally "calling together" opposing parties.

Examples

  1. The manager adopted a conciliatory tone to ease tensions during the meeting.

  2. His conciliatory gestures helped resolve the long-standing dispute.

  3. The government offered conciliatory measures to the protestors.

  4. She wrote a conciliatory email to mend their professional relationship.

  5. A conciliatory approach often yields better results than confrontation.