soothing

1 of 2

adjective

sooth·​ing ˈsü-t͟hiŋ How to pronounce soothing (audio)
Synonyms of soothingnext
: tending to soothe
also : having a sedative effect
soothing syrup
soothingly adverb
soothingness noun

soothing

2 of 2

present participle of soothe

Synonyms of soothing

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Adjective

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Examples of soothing in a Sentence

Adjective The music had a soothing effect on the baby. the soothing music eventually put the entire yoga class in the proper mood
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The best skin-care products to use when its warm are lightweiht and soothing. — Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 26 Aug. 2026 Preloved furniture made from natural materials has a soothing effect. — Sarah Lyon, Architectural Digest, 24 Aug. 2026 Anyone with a scrolling habit will know that social media can be a soothing place for the downbeat and lonely. — Beatrice Loayza, Variety, 22 Aug. 2026 Aloe and Centella asiatica lend soothing benefits, antioxidant-rich green tea defends against environmental stressors, and ceramides support the skin barrier. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for soothing

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1700, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of soothing was in 1700

Phrases Containing soothing

Rhymes for soothing

See All Rhymes for soothing

Browse Nearby Words

soothful
soothing
soothless
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Soothing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soothing. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

soothing

adjective
sooth·​ing
ˈsü-t͟hiŋ
: tending to soothe
soothing sounds
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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