invocation
in-vuh-KAY-shuhn
/ˌɪn.vəˈkeɪ.ʃən/
The act of calling upon a deity, spirit, or higher power for assistance, protection, or inspiration; an opening prayer.
Often occurs at the very beginning of a ceremony, legal proceeding, or epic poem.
The story behind the word. From Latin invocatio, derived from invocare (in- 'upon' + vocare 'to call'). Classical writers called upon the Muses, while Roman priests invoked specific gods at the start of state proceedings.
Word relationships
- appeal: Appeal is generic pleading; invocation carries formal religious or spiritual resonance.
- incantation: Incantation focuses on magical spells; invocation is a prayerful call to a higher power.
- exorcism: Exorcism is calling on spiritual power to drive away or expel a spirit.
Commonly confused with
- evocation: Evocation brings memories, images, or feelings into the imagination; invocation calls upon a deity or spirit for help.
Word family
- invoke (verb): To call upon a deity, law, or authority.
- invocatory (adjective): Serving to invoke.
Collocations
- opening invocation
- invocation of the Muse
- deliver an invocation
- divine invocation
Example sentences
- "The poet began his epic with an invocation to the Muse to guide his storytelling." Classical Literature
- "A local minister delivered the opening invocation at the governor's inauguration." Civic Ceremony
Memory hook
IN-VOC-ation = VOICE calling IN divine help. Calling with the voice for divine aid.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'evocation' (bringing memories or feelings to mind).
Fun facts
- Homer's Odyssey begins with the famous invocation: 'Sing in me, Muse, and through me tell the story.'
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