Synonyms of quell

quell

verb

ˈkwel 

1

as in to subdue

to put a stop to (something) by the use of force

the National Guard was called in to help quell the late-night disturbances downtown

Synonyms & Similar Words

• subdue
• suppress
• repress
• quash
• crush
• stifle
• extinguish
• overcome
• destroy
• squelch
• silence
• sit on
• squash
• crack down (on)
• demolish
• quench
• snuff (out)
• clamp down (on)
• put down
• slap down
• douse
• throttle
• conquer
• strangle
• smother
• ruin
• obliterate
• dominate
• decimate
• exterminate
• overwhelm
• vanquish
• annihilate
• put out
• wipe out
• wreck
• subjugate
• desolate
• overpower
• devastate
• smash
• waste
• nuke
• rub out

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• help
• assist
• aid
• support
• back
• provoke
• stir
• encourage
• abet
• promote
• incite
• foment
• prop up
• instigate
• foster
• further
• forward
• cultivate
• advance
• nurture
• whip (up)
• nourish

2

as in to shush

to stop the noise or speech of

the principal held up her hand to quell the students so they could hear the urgent announcement

Synonyms & Similar Words

• shush
• silence
• settle
• hush
• mute
• extinguish
• quiet
• dumb
• still
• squelch
• quieten
• shut up

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• stir
• agitate

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of quell

To quell concerns, the band posted an explanation on their social media channels. — Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 29 Oct. 2026

France’s government pledged on Monday to replace its national online university admissions platform in 2028, seeking to quell student anger after weeks of mass protests over education and living costs. — Thomas Adamson, Fortune, 26 Oct. 2026

Even Luke Kuechly, who was honored at halftime for his recent induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, couldn’t quell any frustrations. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 25 Oct. 2026

Some areas have received enough rain to quell the risk for the rest of the season, while others probably need another soaking. — Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026