soothe

verb

soothed; soothing
Synonyms of soothenext

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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The separation pampered white prejudices and soothed white conscience and stomachs. Literary Hub, 11 May 2026 It can be used as a nightlight, glows in seven colors and features a selection of soothing soundscapes. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 8 May 2026 For extra calming, centella ansiatica further soothes redness. Rosa Jisoo Pyo, Vogue, 8 May 2026 Choose artwork for the walls with soothing landscapes, or use natural materials like wooden picture frames, cotton throws, or a simple houseplant. Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for soothe

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of soothe was in 1617

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Soothe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soothe. Accessed 15 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

soothe

verb
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

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