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

Some topics of conversation can be the type of retinol and formula, which should include soothing and barrier-supporting ingredients. — Rachel Burchfield, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Pair it with boucle furniture and plush throws for a cozier look, or use it to dress up a soothing blue bedroom. — Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 July 2026

If someone expects too much, don’t soothe the tension by abandoning your limit. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 July 2026

Drawing me back year after year is the Okefenokee’s breathtaking splendor, magnificent array of plants and animals and its mind-soothing peacefulness and serenity. — Charles Seabrook, AJC.com, 25 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