Pronunciation: [plɐkˈatɪv] (IPA) 
The word "placative" is spelled with a "c" instead of a "k" because it comes from the Latin word "placatus," which has a soft "c" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, this sound is represented as /s/, which is why "placative" is spelled with a "c" instead of a "k." The word means tending to soothe or calm, and is often used in the context of conflict resolution or interpersonal communication.
Placative is an adjective that refers to something or someone that is inclined to pacify, calm, or appease others in order to reduce or eliminate conflict or tension. The term is commonly used to describe the demeanor, behavior, or actions of individuals who actively seek harmony and peace in their interactions with others.
When someone is described as placative, it implies that they possess the ability to defuse or mitigate potential conflicts by adopting a conciliatory or soothing approach. Placative individuals often prioritize preserving amicable relationships, avoiding confrontation, and promoting a harmonious environment. They may use tactful language, gentle persuasion, or compromise to help settle disputes or disagreements.
The concept of placative can be applied to various contexts, such as personal relationships, workplace dynamics, or diplomatic negotiations. In interpersonal relationships, a placative partner may exhibit qualities of empathy, understanding, and compromise to avoid conflicts and maintain harmony in the relationship.
In a broader sense, it can also refer to actions or gestures that are intended to calm or soothe others. For instance, if someone offers a placative gesture like a peace offering or an apology, they are seeking to mend or rectify a situation that may have caused tension or conflict.
Overall, placative is an adjective that highlights the inclination or ability of someone or something to pacify, soothe, or alleviate conflicts or tensions with the aim of establishing or maintaining harmony in a given situation.
The word "placative" is derived from the Latin adjective "placatus", which means "appeased" or "pacified". "Placatus" is the past participle of the verb "placare", meaning "to appease", "to calm", or "to soothe". The Latin word "placare" is further related to the noun "placare", meaning "a pleasing appearance". The term eventually made its way into English, where it describes something or someone that is soothing, conciliatory, or capable of pacifying.
