soothing

1 of 2

adjective

sooth·​ing ˈsü-t͟hiŋ 

: tending to soothe

also : having a sedative effect

soothing syrup

soothingly adverb

soothingness noun

soothing

2 of 2

present participle of soothe

Synonyms of soothing

Adjective

• relaxing
• comforting
• tranquilizing
• hypnotic

Examples of soothing in a Sentence

Adjective

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

Adjective

The noodles vibrate with heat, ricocheting between the prickly Sichuan pepper, hot garlic, chiles and soothing sesame. — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026

With a subtle and spa-like floral scent and a soothing, lightweight gel consistency, the cream also lends itself to a pleasantly sensorial application experience. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2026

The Paperwhite offers a yellow-amber lighting option that is much more soothing. — Will Greenwald, PC Magazine, 28 Oct. 2026

The recipe calls for plenty of seaweed, rich in nourishing minerals, and is deeply soothing and hydrating. — Trinity Mouzon Wofford, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

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