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

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

pacifically

pə-ˈsi-fi-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Synonyms of pacific

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

Shipments bounced back from a low baseline in 2025, after the tariff dispute between the countries had intensified, briefly sinking volumes on the trans-Pacific eastbound route. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 4 Aug. 2026

Still, Pacific atolls remain among the wildest places on the planet. — NPR, 3 Aug. 2026

This ruling has transformed China's claims from contested to unlawful in global perception, setting the terms for regional diplomacy and potentially influencing future Pacific stability. — Jill Goldenziel, Forbes.com, 30 July 2026

Famous for its postcard-worthy Pacific sunsets, the beachside city just west of Los Angeles offers front-row views as the sun sinks behind the Santa Monica Pier, illuminating its iconic Ferris wheel and golden shoreline in vivid evening light. — Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 22 July 2026

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