soothing

adjective

sooth·​ing ˈsü-t͟hiŋ 

: tending to soothe

also : having a sedative effect

soothing syrup

soothingly adverb

soothingness noun

Synonyms of soothing

• relaxing
• comforting
• tranquilizing
• hypnotic

Examples of soothing in a Sentence

The music had a soothing effect on the baby.

the soothing music eventually put the entire yoga class in the proper mood

Recent Examples on the Web

As such, its mass of untamed, scrubby green can today be traipsed through on foot or horseback, via ethereal blue coves such as Cala Marinella, the odd wandering fox and to the soothing rhythm of Aleppo pines rustling in the hot wind. —Rosalyn Wikeley, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Jan. 2026

Other ancient cultures, including the Greeks, Native Americans and the Maya, also chewed tree resins for pleasure or soothing effects, National Geographic recently reported. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 10 Jan. 2026

These are the bad bathroom layouts keeping your space from feeling like a sanctuary, and designers are sharing how to switch things up for a much more soothing space. —Nishaa Sharma, The Spruce, 6 Jan. 2026

Warm, soothing, and comforting – chicken soup is really good for the soul. —Krissy Tiglias, Southern Living, 31 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing soothing

• making soothing/reassuring noises

Rhymes for soothing

• smoothing

Kids Definition

soothing

adjective

sooth·​ing

ˈsü-t͟hiŋ

: tending to soothe

soothing sounds