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

Soaking in a hot bath is relaxing, but adding magnesium flakes can be an extra soothing experience. —Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 21 Nov. 2025

Grating anything is usually a knuckle-threatening chore—but this stippled ceramic dish from Japan makes it into its own soothing ritual, turning a brown stem into liquidish gold with a few easy rubs. —The Atlantic, 19 Nov. 2025

Offering long-lasting moisture, this innovative ointment instantly relieves the chapped or cracked skin while delivering a soothing, healing effect to boost your skin’s moisture barrier overnight. —Denise Primbet, Glamour, 18 Nov. 2025

Every detail, from the fabric texture to the weight distribution, is meant to evoke a soothing, cocoon-like experience through its deep-pressure touch stimulation technology. —Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 18 Nov. 2025

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