Use 'placate' when actions are taken to soothe someone's emotional state. He bought her flowers to placate her after their argument.
Pro Tip 2/3
Conflict Resolution
'Placate' often implies resolving a tense or difficult situation with gentle actions. The customer service agent managed to placate the dissatisfied client with a refund.
Pro Tip 3/3
Temporary Solution
Placating might not solve the issue but can quickly calm the situation temporarily. Acknowledging the error helped to placate the crowd until a solution was found.