soothing

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

Synonyms of soothing

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Examples of soothing in a Sentence

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.
Meanwhile, the in-cabin activities were equally soothing, with meditative coloring books, cards, board games, a yoga mat, and on-the-nose books about getting lost in nature’s beauty. — Madeline Bilis, Travel + Leisure, 4 Aug. 2026 Getting organized is emotionally soothing as the moon and Mercury harmonize. — Usa Today, USA Today, 1 Aug. 2026 The night-light set is also budget-friendly and offers a soft and soothing glow for your child. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 29 July 2026 This simple practice benefits all caregivers, not just birthing parents, and can be done during feeding, soothing, or babywearing. — Parents, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for soothing

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of soothing was in 1700

Phrases Containing soothing

Rhymes for soothing

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Browse Nearby Words

soothful
soothing
soothless
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Cite this Entry

“Soothing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soothing. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

soothing

adjective
sooth·​ing
ˈsü-t͟hiŋ
: tending to soothe
soothing sounds

More from Merriam-Webster on soothing

Nglish: Translation of soothing for Spanish Speakers

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