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

Nothing soothes the soul quite like the sun and sand — and, for some people, a giant shade canopy, indoor couch and a table decked out with flatware and a fancy meal. — Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026

The water is said to soothe pathologies of the respiratory system, treat rheumatic complaints and aid motor rehabilitation. — Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

Youth to the People Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream sets out to soothe sensitive skin, reduce redness, and support the skin barrier with adaptogenic reishi mushroom. — Deanna Pai, Vogue, 6 July 2026

Share a meaningful story with a mentor or a relative far away, because seeing the bigger picture can soothe worries and recenter your priorities. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 5 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