now, now

phrase

1
used to tell someone not to be worried or unhappy
Now, now, don't cry. Everything will be all right. You'll see!
2
used in speech to express criticism or disapproval in a gentle way
Now, now. There's no need to use that kind of language.

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Cite this Entry

“Now, now.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/now%2C%20now. Accessed 6 Mar. 2026.

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