relief
UK: rɪˈliːf | US: rɪˈliːf
n. the alleviation of pain, distress, or difficulty
n. financial or practical assistance given to those in need
n. a feeling of reassurance or relaxation
n. a method of sculpture or carving where the design stands out from the surface
The word "relief" originates from Old French relief (meaning "assistance" or "remnant"), derived from Latin relevare ("to raise again" or "lighten"). The morpheme re- signifies repetition ("again"), while -lief (from levare, "to lift") conveys the idea of lightening a burden. Over time, the term evolved to encompass both physical and emotional alleviation, reflecting its core logic of "lifting away" distress.
The medicine provided immediate relief from her headache.
The government sent relief supplies to the flood victims.
He sighed in relief after passing the difficult exam.
The artist carved the figures in high relief on the stone panel.
Volunteers offered relief to the homeless during the winter storm.