Assuage

To Assuage means to make an unpleasant feeling, such as pain, grief, anger, or doubt, less intense. It signifies a soothing or calming effect, bringing relief and easing discomfort. Assuagement can occur physically, emotionally, or mentally. The process often involves the reduction of severity or intensity of something negative, like a worry or a physical ache. It implies a gradual lessening rather than a sudden cessation, offering a sense of comfort or mitigation to the source of distress. This process often necessitates a degree of understanding or empathy towards the subject requiring assuagement.

Assuage meaning with examples

• After a long day, a warm bath often helped to Assuage the muscle aches and tension, providing a soothing escape. The heat relaxed my body and calmed my nerves. Even though it was not a cure, the momentary release made the pain less profound, offering needed respite before I tried to sleep. The therapeutic relief I felt was welcome.
• The therapist tried to Assuage the patient’s anxieties about the upcoming surgery by thoroughly explaining the procedure and answering all their questions. She spent hours calming the patient, explaining the science to allow the patient a sense of control. This careful preparation aimed at alleviating fear before the actual experience and made them calmer.
• To Assuage his guilt over the accident, John volunteered at the local hospital, hoping that his actions would help bring some sense of peace and lessen the weight of his actions. He felt like he had to do something. Helping others seemed to be the appropriate way to atone for his actions and ease the internal torment.
• The government implemented new policies to Assuage public concerns about the economy, including stimulus packages and job creation programs. These measures were intended to calm fears that had been fueled by widespread unemployment, offering hope for a better future and reducing public anxiety about the economy.
• The mother read a bedtime story to Assuage her child's fear of the dark. The soothing voice, gentle narrative and familiarity provided comfort and a distraction, creating a secure environment. The familiar routine was a welcome contrast to the frightening images that haunted the small child, and helped bring peaceful sleep.