invocation

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in·vo·ca·tion / ˌinvəˈkāshən/ • n. the action of invoking something or someone for assistance or as an authority: the invocation of new disciplines and methodologies. ∎  the summoning of a deity or the supernatural: his invocation of the ancient mystical powers. ∎  an incantation used for this. ∎  (in the Christian Church) a form of words such as “In the name of the Father” introducing a prayer, sermon, etc.DERIVATIVES: in·voc·a·to·ry / inˈväkəˌtôrē/ adj.