soothe
UK: suːð | US: suːð
vt. to gently calm or relieve (pain, distress, or agitation)
vt. to bring comfort or reassurance
vi. (archaic) to prove true or valid
soothe = sooth<true/calm> + e (verbal suffix)
- sooth (Old English sōþ): Means "true" or "calm" (related to Germanic santhaz). Originally implied truthfulness, later extended to emotional calmness.
- -e: A verbalizing suffix in Old English, forming verbs from nouns/adjectives.
Etymology Origin:
The word "soothe" evolved from Old English sōþian ("to prove true"), derived from sōþ ("truth"). Over time, its meaning shifted from factual validation ("to confirm as true") to emotional validation ("to calm or comfort"). The connection lies in the idea of "truth" bringing mental relief—e.g., soothing words are those that feel genuine and reassuring.
She sang a lullaby to soothe the crying baby.
The ointment helped soothe his sunburn.
His apology did little to soothe her anger.
Warm tea can soothe a sore throat.
(Archaic) The evidence will soothe your doubts.