Definition of: propitiation

(prō·pish′ē·ā′shən) noun
1. The act of propitiating.
2. That which propitiates. Synonyms: atonement, expiation, reconciliation, satisfaction. Atonement (at–one–ment), originally denoting reconciliation, or the bringing into agreement of those who have been estranged, is now chiefly used, as in theology, in the sense of some offering, sacrifice, or suffering sufficient to win forgiveness or make up for an offense. Expiation is the enduring of the full penalty of a wrong or crime. Propitiation is an offering, action, or sacrifice that makes the governing power propitious toward the offender. Satisfaction denotes the rendering a full legal equivalent for the wrong done. Propitiation appeases the lawgiver; satisfaction meets the requirements of the law. Antonyms: alienation, condemnation, estrangement, offense, penalty, punishment, reprobation.