Soothing
ˈsuːðɪŋ
Definitions
Having a gently calming or comforting effect.
ˈsuːðɪŋ
Having a calming or comforting effect.
The warm bath had a soothing effect on her tired muscles.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're feeling upset. A soothing thing is like a warm hug or a quiet song that makes you feel better. Like a gentle breeze on a hot day.
👶 For kids: Making you feel calm and happy.
More Examples
The gentle music created a soothing atmosphere.
Her soothing words calmed the crying child.
How It's Used
"The soothing cream helped to relieve the itching."
"She found the sound of the ocean a soothing balm to her anxieties."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Middle English *sothen*, from Old English *sōþian* 'to prove to be true, confirm', later evolving to mean 'to alleviate' or 'calm', influenced by the Old English adjective *sōfte* 'soft'.
The word 'soothing' and its root, 'soothe,' have been used since the late Old English period, initially in the sense of proving something true, later evolving to mean 'to comfort' or 'calm'.
Memory tip
Think of a soft blanket or a calm voice. Something that takes away discomfort.
Word Origin
"to prove (something to be true) or to comfort"