pacific

adjective

pa·​cif·​ic pə-ˈsi-fik How to pronounce pacific (audio)
Synonyms of pacificnext
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 How to pronounce pacific (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of pacific

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Major powers have rushed to shore up access to the countries and relationships with Pacific leaders in return for various sweeteners, creating a web of sometimes conflicting alliances that have reshaped the region. — ABC News, 3 Sep. 2026 The City of Trees is expected to see a bout of cool, wet weather as a Pacific low-pressure system lingers in Treasure Valley, according to the National Weather Service. — Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 2 Sep. 2026 The biggest factor here is that the game is in Honolulu, and that kind of trans-Pacific travel coupled with a season-opening loss could spell trouble for the Rebels. — Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 1 Sep. 2026 But an ambiguous central Pacific coral record is also what climate models predict. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pacific

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of pacific was circa 1548

Rhymes for pacific

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Browse Nearby Words

pacifiable
pacific
Pacifica
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Cite this Entry

“Pacific.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pacific. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

pacific

adjective
pa·​cif·​ic pə-ˈsif-ik How to pronounce pacific (audio)
1
: tending to lessen or avoid fights or disagreements
2
: having a peaceful nature
pacifically
-i-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce pacific (audio)
adverb
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