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

In addition to the hydrating complex, the patches are infused with ku shen root to soothe inflammation and mugwort leaf extract for moisture. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 3 Dec. 2025

The Aestura AtoBarrier365 Mini Hydrating Best Sellers Kit includes the brand’s foaming cleanser, serum, and fan-favorite cream—all formulated to soothe, strengthen, and seriously hydrate without overwhelming delicate skin. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 2 Dec. 2025

The decor is soothing and minimalist, with polished black floors, bare white walls and quiet music. —Roxana Popescu, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Dec. 2025

This low-pile linen rug that’s currently hundreds off easily blends into your existing decor, and comes in four soothing colorways to ground your space. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 1 Dec. 2025

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

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