# relieving

/ɹiˈɫivɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹɪlˈiːvɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/relieving
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

making a bad feeling, such as pain or stress, less strong. It helps you feel better by taking away some of the discomfort.

For teachers: providing a reduction in pain, distress, or pressure. Often used as a participial adjective to describe substances, actions, or experiences that mitigate physical or emotional discomfort.

## Examples

- The cool water had a relieving effect on my burnt skin.
- After a long day of hiking, taking off her heavy boots was a deeply relieving experience.
- The government implemented several relieving measures to assist small businesses struggling with the sudden increase in energy costs.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a participial adjective before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'feel'.

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