soothing

adjective

sooth·​ing ˈsü-t͟hiŋ 

: tending to soothe

also : having a sedative effect

soothing syrup

soothingly adverb

soothingness noun

Synonyms of soothing

• relaxing
• comforting
• tranquilizing
• hypnotic

Examples of soothing in a Sentence

The music had a soothing effect on the baby.

the soothing music eventually put the entire yoga class in the proper mood

Recent Examples on the Web

Spray dry toilet paper with cleansing, soothing and refreshing Pristine to create an instant wet wipe that is actually flushable and safe for your sewer and septic systems. —ABC News, 11 Apr. 2026

Javier Ignacio is both soothing and snippy as the Beast’s confidante Cogsworth, a clock, while Cameron Monroe Thomas adds vivacity to the dour castle as the feather duster Babette. —Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 9 Apr. 2026

The songs will feature bells, xylophones, and other soothing instruments in place of Beyoncé’s vocals, as reported by Billboard. —Caché McClay, USA Today, 9 Apr. 2026

Convenience aside, the formula blends tapioca starch and oat-kernel flour for double-duty scalp soothing and oil absorption, with aloe-leaf juice for hair hydration. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 8 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing soothing

• making soothing/reassuring noises

Rhymes for soothing

• smoothing

Kids Definition

soothing

adjective

sooth·​ing

ˈsü-t͟hiŋ

: tending to soothe

soothing sounds