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 of soothe

• reassure
• assure
• comfort

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

The formula also contains 2 percent niacinamide, binchotan white charcoal, bamboo, chickweed herb and witch hazel leaf extract to help soothe irritation, absorb excess oil and support scalp health. — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 21 July 2026

That soothed the huge disappointment of their soccer team — World Cup runners-up in 2006 — who went on strike and refused to train before crashing out of the group stages. — Chris Marshall-Bell, New York Times, 19 July 2026

For a soft, soothing color palette and delicate stitching that evokes an enchanted garden, this reversible quilt is well worth a look. — Better Homes & Gardens, 19 July 2026

Blanket sucking is a self-soothing behavior thought to mimic nursing. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 15 July 2026

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

Rhymes for soothe

• smooth
• sooth

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