English Reference

Word

soothing

Phoneticssooth·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈsuðɪŋ/

UK/sˈuːðɪŋ/

Definitions

01calming or relaxing

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. having a gentle effect that makes you feel less stressed or worried.

adj. producing a calming or sedative effect on the nerves or emotions.

“The spa played soothing music to help the guests relax during their massage.”

“The therapist's soothing tone of voice was instrumental in de-escalating the patient's acute anxiety during the initial consultation.”

02relieving pain

B2 · Upper Intermediate Medicine

adj. reducing pain or discomfort, especially on your skin.

adj. providing physical relief from pain, irritation, or inflammation.

“She applied a soothing cream to her sunburn to stop the stinging.”

“The ointment contains aloe vera and menthol, providing a soothing sensation that immediately reduces the heat of the chemical burn.”

03the act of calming

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal

n. the act of making someone feel better or calmer.

n. the action or process of mollifying, comforting, or providing relief to another.

“The gentle soothing of the crying baby took nearly an hour.”

“The constant soothing required by the traumatised animals placed a significant emotional burden on the sanctuary staff.”

Synonyms

comfortingmollification

Real-World Examples

“It puts out quite a bit of steam, which I personally found soothing during the dry winter while I was testing it.”
WIRED 18 Jun 2026
“Either way, milk is no longer recommended for people with ulcers because it might do the opposite of soothing them.”
BBC 4 Sept 2013

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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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