pacific

adjective

pa·​cif·​ic pə-ˈsi-fik 

1

a

: tending to lessen conflict : conciliatory

b

: rejecting the use of force as an instrument of policy

2

a

: having a soothing appearance or effect

mild pacific breezes

b

: mild of temper : peaceable

3

capitalized : of, relating to, bordering on, or situated near the Pacific Ocean

pacifically

pə-ˈsi-fi-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• peaceful
• conciliatory
• benevolent
• soothing
• kind
• calming
• placatory
• gentle
• appeasing
• relaxing
• comforting
• propitiatory
• conciliating

Examples of pacific in a Sentence

as a pacific gesture, we invited our feuding neighbors to our backyard barbecue

a pacific nation that has managed to remain neutral even during times of world conflict

Recent Examples on the Web

Xi must know that old societies tend to be pacific and that China is getting old fast. —Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 23 Dec. 2024

Their awards show is today, Saturday, at 12 noon pacific time. —Charlie Fink, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2025

Their latest, limited-edition scent is called Sanctuary and lifts inspiration from Palo Santo, a small town along the pacific coast of Mexico. —Nadja Sayej, Forbes, 3 Jan. 2025

Xi must know that old societies tend to be pacific and that China is getting old fast. —Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 23 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pacifique, from Latin pacificus, from pac-, pax peace + -i- + -ficus -fic — more at pact

First Known Use

circa 1548, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for pacific

• horrific
• prolific
• salvific
• specific
• terrific
• calorific
• conspecific
• hieroglyphic
• honorific
• nonspecific
• scientific
• soporific

Kids Definition

pacific

adjective

pa·​cif·​ic pə-ˈsif-ik 

1

: tending to lessen or avoid fights or disagreements

2

: having a peaceful nature

pacifically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb