English Reference

Word

comforting

Phoneticscom·fort·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈkəmfɝtɪŋ/

UK/kˈʌmfətɪŋ/

Definitions

01soothing or reassuring

B1 · Intermediate

adj. making you feel less sad, worried, or upset.

adj. providing physical or emotional solace; serving to alleviate distress or anxiety.

“It was comforting to know that my family was waiting for me at the airport.”

“The therapist's comforting tone helped the patient discuss the traumatic event without feeling overwhelmed by anxiety.”

02physically pleasant

B1 · Intermediate

adj. giving a feeling of physical warmth or relaxation.

adj. evoking a sense of physical well-being, warmth, or security.

“A bowl of hot soup is very comforting on a cold winter day.”

“The familiar, comforting scent of baking bread filled the house, instantly making the guests feel at home.”

Synonyms

Antonyms

03the act of soothing

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the act of trying to make someone feel better.

n. the action of providing solace or consolation to another person.

“The comforting of the crying child took a long time.”

“The ritual comforting of the bereaved is a central aspect of many cultural traditions during the mourning period.”

Word family

ADJECTIVE

comforting(B1)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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