Soothe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฟ
soothe
[suหรฐ ]
Definitions
calming effect
To calm or relieve pain or distress. To alleviate or reduce feelings of discomfort or anxiety.
Synonyms
comfort, ease, pacify, relieve.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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soothe |
This word is typically used to describe the act of calming someone who is upset or to alleviate pain or discomfort. Common in situations involving physical or emotional distress.
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comfort |
Comfort is often used when providing emotional support or reassurance to someone in distress, grief, or sadness. It implies a deeper emotional connection and support.
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relieve |
Relieve is used to describe the act of removing or reducing pain, stress, or discomfort. It often refers to physical relief but can also apply to emotional or mental states.
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pacify |
Pacify generally implies calming someone who is angry, agitated, or upset. It is often used in contexts where there was a conflict or strong emotional reaction. It can have a slightly negative connotation if it suggests suppressing someone's feelings rather than addressing them.
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ease |
This word is used to describe the act of making a situation less difficult or severe. It can refer to reducing pain, stress, or hardship. It is more general and can apply to a wide range of situations.
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Examples of usage
- Listening to soft music can soothe a crying baby.
- The warm tea helped soothe her sore throat.
- After a long day at work, a hot bath can soothe tired muscles.
reassuring effect
To reassure or comfort someone who is upset or distressed. To provide emotional support in a calming manner.
Synonyms
console, encourage, reassure, support.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
soothe |
This word is often used when trying to calm someone who is upset, in pain, or stressed.
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console |
Use this word when giving comfort to someone who is grieving or saddened by a loss. Typically involves emotional support.
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reassure |
This word is suitable when you need to make someone feel less worried or fearful, often by confirming that things will be okay.
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support |
Use this word when offering assistance, whether emotional, financial, or practical, in a broader sense.
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encourage |
This word fits when you want to give someone confidence or motivate them to do something or to keep going.
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Examples of usage
- Her gentle words helped soothe his worries.
- She tried to soothe her friend after the breakup.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Soothing techniques, such as deep breathing, can reduce anxiety and create a sense of calm.
- Sounds like gentle music or nature sounds are often used in therapies to soothe stress.
Cultural Practices
- In many cultures, the act of soothing can be through rituals, such as singing lullabies to children.
- Meditation practices globally usually focus on soothing the mind and body to achieve peace.
Literature
- The theme of soothing others is frequently found in poetry, symbolizing love and comfort.
- In fairytales, magical creatures often soothe troubled characters, illustrating the power of kindness.
Science
- Research shows that physical touch, like a gentle hug, can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of comfort.
- Certain colors in a room, like soft blues and greens, are scientifically proven to create a soothing environment.
Origin of 'soothe'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from Old English 'sลthian,' which means 'to make true or real.'
- Over the centuries, it evolved to represent the idea of easing pain or distress.
The word 'soothe' originated from Middle English 'sothen', which is derived from Old English 'sฤothian', meaning 'to confirm, establish'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the sense of calming or comforting. The soothing effect of this word has been recognized for centuries, with various cultures incorporating soothing practices into their healing traditions.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #15,648, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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- 15645 flickering
- 15646 inject
- 15647 refrigerated
- 15648 soothe
- 15649 courier
- 15650 marred
- 15651 serpentine
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