quell
UK: kwel | US: kwel
vt. to suppress or extinguish (a rebellion, emotion, or noise)
vt. to pacify or quieten
vt. (archaic) to kill or destroy
The word "quell" traces back to Old English cwellan, meaning "to kill, murder, or execute." Over time, its meaning softened to "suppress" or "pacify," particularly in the context of subduing rebellions or emotions. The Germanic root kwaljaną (to torment or kill) further connects it to related words like "kill" and "quench." The semantic shift reflects a broader cultural transition from physical violence to metaphorical suppression.
The king sent troops to quell the uprising.
She took deep breaths to quell her anxiety.
The police used tear gas to quell the riot.
His reassuring words quelled her fears.
(Archaic) The tyrant sought to quell all opposition.