VocabDictionary

invocation

/ˌɪnvəˈkeɪʃən/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The action of calling upon someone or something, especially a deity, spirit, or authority, for assistance, inspiration, or as a witness.

Example Sentences:
  • The ceremony began with an invocation to the gods for a bountiful harvest.
  • The lawyer's invocation of the Fifth Amendment prevented his client from having to testify.
2.noun

The act of mentioning or citing something, such as a law, rule, or precedent, to justify an action or argument.

Example Sentences:
  • The invocation of emergency powers allowed the government to bypass standard legislative procedures.
  • His invocation of historical precedents failed to convince the skeptical committee.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “invocation”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'invocatio', from 'invocare' (to call upon), formed by the prefix 'in-' (into/upon) and 'vocare' (to call). Historically, it referred to the act of calling upon a deity or spirit for assistance, inspiration, or protection, often in a religious or magical context.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'in-vocal-tion': You are using your 'vocal' cords to call 'in' a higher power or authority.

Frequently Asked Questions About “invocation

1. What is the meaning of “invocation” in English?

In English, invocation (noun) is defined as: “The action of calling upon someone or something, especially a deity, spirit, or authority, for assistance, inspiration, or as a witness.”.

2. How do you use “invocation” in a sentence?

The ceremony began with an invocation to the gods for a bountiful harvest.

3. What are English synonyms of “invocation”?

Common synonyms include:appeal,entreaty,summons,petition,citation

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “invocation”?

Derived from the Latin 'invocatio', from 'invocare' (to call upon), formed by the prefix 'in-' (into/upon) and 'vocare' (to call). Historically, it referred to the act of calling upon a deity or spirit for assistance, inspiration, or protection, often in a religious or magical context.