noun

supplication

sup-lih-KAY-shun/ˌsʌplɪˈkeɪʃn/

A humble, earnest request or prayer.

She bows her head in supplication and asks for forgiveness.

A solitary person bows their head and clasps hands in sincere quiet prayer.

Etymology

supLatinunder

+plicLatinappease, soothe

+ationLatinact or process

The appeasing root developed into the idea of begging humbly, and the noun ending names that act. Its use for public prayer in Latin connects this humble appeal with the selected prayer sense.

In context

Vietnam-era Vet Speaks Out17:45

in all things through prayer and supplication with Thanksgiving you will let your request be made known to God

My Thoughts On The Arizona Tape Brouhaha - Requested reaction

More examples

The prisoner sends the governor a supplication for mercy.
Their supplications for food and shelter go unanswered.
He kneels in quiet supplication beside his hospital bed.

Forms

supplication · supplications

supplicate verb — To ask or pray humbly and earnestly.

supplicant noun — Someone who asks humbly and earnestly.

Similar words

plea: An urgent, emotional request, not necessarily humble or prayerful.
prayer: Addresses a deity and may express thanks rather than requests.
petition: Usually a formal request to an authority, sometimes with signatures.