Final answer:
The word 'palliate' means to alleviate suffering or reduce the severity of a problem. It is used when referring to temporary relief that does not necessarily cure the underlying issue, such as in medical palliative care.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term 'palliate' means to alleviate suffering or to lessen the severity of an ailment or a problem without actually curing it. When we use the word 'palliate' in a sentence, it's usually in the context of providing relief that is temporary or symbolic, but not a permanent fix. For example, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever can palliate a headache, making you feel better without addressing the underlying cause of the headache.
In the context of the options presented in your question, the correct meaning of 'palliate' is Option 1: To alleviate suffering. It certainly does not mean to intensify, excuse, or exacerbate suffering, which are the other choices given. Thus, palliative care in medicine seeks to lessen discomfort for patients with serious illnesses, aiming to improve quality of life.