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Dictionary definition of quell

To suppress or put an end to something, such as an uprising, rebellion, or disturbance.
"The government used force to quell the riots."

Detailed meaning of quell

It can also be used to describe the act of putting down or silencing an opponent or enemy. The term is often used in the context of political or military actions, where one side uses force or other means to put an end to the resistance of the other side. "Quell" can also be used to describe the action of putting an end to a disturbance or unrest, such as riots, protests, or strikes. It can also be used more figuratively, such as in the phrase "to quell one's fears" to mean to alleviate or put an end to someone's fear or anxiety. The term "quell" often implies a use of force or a strong action to bring an end to something, but it can also be used in a peaceful context to mean to alleviate or put an end to something in a gentle or subtle way.

Example sentences of quell

1. The police used tear gas to quell the riot quickly.
2. Her soothing words helped quell his anxieties.
3. The leader aimed to quell dissent within the party.
4. Swift action was taken to quell the spreading rumors.
5. The general deployed troops to quell the insurgency.
6. Meditation can help quell inner turmoil.

History and etymology of quell

The verb 'quell' has its origins in the Old English word 'cwellan,' which meant 'to kill' or 'to murder.' Over time, the meaning of 'cwellan' evolved to encompass the idea of suppressing or putting an end to something by force. In Middle English, 'quell' came to mean 'to subdue' or 'to bring under control.' It retained this sense of bringing about calm or order through suppression when it was adopted into modern English. 'Quell' is used to describe the act of suppressing or extinguishing various forms of disturbance, rebellion, or upheaval, often by using force or authority to restore order. The etymology of 'quell' underscores its historical connection to the idea of overcoming or subduing, emphasizing its role in bringing an end to tumultuous or disruptive situations.

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Further usage examples of quell

1. They managed to quell the rebellion without bloodshed.
2. Her calm demeanor helped quell the heated argument.
3. A compromise was reached to quell the dispute.
4. The mayor's address sought to quell public fears.
5. The teacher worked to quell classroom disruptions.
6. Music has the power to quell emotional turmoil.
7. Their unity was crucial to quell the division.
8. Negotiations were initiated to quell the labor strike.
9. The firefighters raced to quell the raging inferno.
10. The CEO's announcement aimed to quell investor concerns.
11. A heartfelt apology can quell hurt feelings.
12. The principal acted swiftly to quell bullying incidents.
13. Diplomacy was used to quell international tensions.
14. The captain's leadership helped quell the crew's fears.
15. They hoped to quell the rising tide of criticism.
16. Resilience can quell the impact of adversity.
17. His intervention was needed to quell the escalating feud.
18. Effective communication can quell misunderstandings.
19. Community support can help quell social issues.