: tending to soothe
also : having a sedative effect
soothing syrup
soothingly adverb
soothingness noun

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.
Their look and feeling are soothing and sublime, thanks to the deft hand of noted Spanish interior designer Pilar García-Nieto. Ann Abel, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025 Some models serve purely to create a soothing ambiance, acting as night lights for children, whereas others can be educational tools with accurate renderings of the night sky indoors. Tantse Walter, Space.com, 24 Apr. 2025 The track wraps that feeling of wanting someone who feels just out of reach into something beautiful and soothing. Michael Saponara, Billboard, 21 Apr. 2025 Offering a soothing, minimalist atmosphere, the train has two runs. The New York Times, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Apr. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Soothing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soothing. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

soothing

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

More from Merriam-Webster on soothing

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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