soothe

verb

ˈsüt͟h 

soothed; soothing

transitive verb

1

: to please by or as if by attention or concern : placate

2

: relieve, alleviate

soothe a cough

3

: to bring comfort, solace, or reassurance to

music soothes the soul

intransitive verb

: to bring peace, composure, or quietude

soother noun

Synonyms

• assure
• cheer
• comfort
• console
• reassure
• solace

Examples of soothe in a Sentence

The waiter tried to soothe the angry customer.

This cream soothes aching muscles.

Her nerves were soothed by a warm bath.

Nothing can soothe their pain.

Recent Examples on the Web

From hydrating to shine-controlling to soothing, each face mist is designed to tackle specific skin-care concerns and should complement your existing regiment. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 17 Dec. 2024

Only have 30 minutes to soothe your rage before family dinner? —Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 17 Dec. 2024

School employees, unable to soothe Benji’s tantrums, frequently called her to take him home. —Annie Waldman, CNN, 14 Dec. 2024

The formula is packed with amino acids, peptides, and vitamins to cleanse and hydrate, all while soothing redness and strengthening your skin barrier. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 13 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English sothen to verify, from Old English sōthian, from sōth

First Known Use

1617, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

soothe

verb

ˈsüt͟h 

soothed; soothing

1

: to please by or as if by attention or concern : placate

2

: alleviate, relieve

the lotion soothed his sunburn

3

: to bring comfort : calm down

music soothes the soul