precatory

English

Etymology

From Late Latin precatorius, from Latin precari (“to pray”).

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ˈpɹɛ.kə.tə.ɹi/, /ˈpɹɛ.kə.tɹi/
• (US) IPA^(key): /ˈpɹɛ.kəˌtɔ.ɹi/

Adjective

precatory (comparative more precatory, superlative most precatory)

1. Expressing a wish.
   • 1827 December, Sir Walter Scott, The Journal of Sir Walter Scott:

     December 8. . . . A precatory letter from Gillies. I must do Molière for him, I suppose; but it is wonderful that knowing the situation I am in, the poor fellow presses so hard.

2. (law) Expressing a wish but not creating any legal obligation or duty.

   precatory words in a will

Synonyms

• (expressing a wish): precative, supplicatory
• (legal): aspirational

Related terms

• precation

See also

• should