verb

supplicate

SUP-luh-kayt/ˈsʌpləˌkeɪt/

To ask humbly and earnestly for help or mercy.

The adult supplicates for help with humble, outstretched palms.

An adult leans forward with open palms asking earnestly for help from another adult.

Etymology

supLatinunder

+plicLatinappease, soothe

+ateLatinpast-participle ending

Latin combined “under” with “appease” in a verb meaning “beg humbly.” The English verb preserves that connection between seeking favor and making an earnest, deferential appeal.

In context

Mormon Stories Podcast70:58

may you all realize the necessity of getting together often to pray and supplicate at the throne of grace

Could Joseph Smith Write or Dictate a Well-Worded Letter? LDS Discussions Pt. 68 | Ep. 2089

More examples

She kneels to supplicate for help.
He supplicated the judge to spare his family.
The villagers are supplicating for aid after the flood.

Forms

supplicate · supplicates · supplicated · supplicating

supplication noun — A humble, earnest request for help.

supplicant noun — A person who humbly requests help.

Similar words

beseech: Emphasizes earnest pleading without necessarily suggesting humility or submission.
implore: Stresses urgent or desperate appeals more than humble submission.