rogation definition

1. The demand, by the consuls or tribunes, of a law to be passed by the people; a proposed law or decree.

2. Litany; supplication. "He perfecteth the rogations or litanies before in use." (Hooker) Rogation days, the three days which immediately precede Ascension Day; so called as being days on which the people, walking in procession, sang litanies of special supplication.

<botany> Rogation flower, a European species of milkwort (Polygala vulgaris); so called from its former use for garlands in Rogation week. Rogation week, the second week before Whitsunday, in which the Rogation days occur.

Origin: L. Rogatio, fr. Rogare, rogatum, to ask, beg, supplicate: cf. F. Rogation. Cf. Abrogate, Arrogant, Probogue.

(01 Mar 1998)