1. the act of calling upon a deity, spirit, or higher power for help, protection, or inspiration
Usage: often religious or spiritual
2. the act of citing or appealing to something as an authority or justification
Usage: formal
3. the action of bringing or calling something into use or effect
Usage: formal

Examples

• The ceremony began with invocations to the ancient gods.
• Her invocations for divine guidance were answered.
• The lawyer’s invocations of constitutional rights strengthened his case.
• The president’s invocations of national security justified the new policies.
• The software requires specific invocations to run properly.
• His invocations of emergency powers concerned many citizens.