propitiative

comparative more propitiative · superlative most propitiative

1. Serving to, or intended to, propitiate; propitiatory, reconciliatory

   The missive from Arthur was a short but complete and propitiative acknowledgment of his error and fraility.

   1902, George Washington Cable, Bylow Hill

   2 more examples

   A friendly word will bring him to my hand; but his behavior is never effusive, as it would be if he had found his rightful owner, but mildly propitiative and with a touch of sadness.

   1908, Nathaniel Southgate Shaler, Domesticated Animals

   The old commodore's eyes flashed to retort, but the senator forced a propitiative smile, adding: "However, let that pass just now, here's something else."

   1914, George W. Cable, Gideon's Band