noun

invocation

in-vuh-KAY-shun/ˌɪnvəˈkeɪʃn/

A calling upon a power to act or provide support.

The petitioner's invocation calls upon the official for assistance.

At a simple civic hearing table, a petitioner makes a solemn, formal appeal for assistance to a seated official.

Etymology

inLatinupon

+vocLatinto call

+ationLatinact or process

An invocation is literally an act of “calling upon.” Early uses included calling upon a deity for aid or comfort—the same appeal underlying a formal request for help or inspiration.

In context

YaleCourses37:24

You have an opening invocation to worship, calling others to worship or praise God.

Lecture 21. Biblical Poetry: Psalms and Song of Songs

More examples

The poem opens with an invocation to the muse.
Her invocation of the safety rules supports her request.
Each invocation of the function produces a new number.

Forms

invocation · invocations

invoke verb — To call upon for help or support.

Similar words

appeal: A broader request for help, support, or a decision.
prayer: An address to a deity, not necessarily requesting help.