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relieve

Relieve (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/rɪˈliv/

What does relieve mean?

To alleviate, ease, or lessen the intensity, pressure, or discomfort of something.
"A good night's sleep can relieve fatigue and restore energy."

Detailed Meaning of Relieve

When you relieve something, you take action to provide assistance, support, or respite from a challenging, distressing, or burdensome situation. It involves providing relief or comfort, often through the reduction or elimination of pain, stress, tension, or other forms of hardship. Relief can be physical, emotional, or psychological in nature. For example, you can relieve physical pain by taking medication or applying a soothing ointment. Similarly, you can relieve stress by engaging in relaxation techniques or seeking support from others. The act of relieving aims to restore a state of well-being, balance, or ease, enabling individuals to experience a sense of comfort, relaxation, or peace.

Example Sentences for Relieve

1. A warm bath can relieve muscle soreness after a workout.
2. The rain is expected to relieve the parched farmland.
3. Taking a break can relieve mental fatigue.
4. He offered to relieve her of some of her duties.
5. The medication helped relieve his chronic pain.
6. Laughter can relieve stress and boost your mood.

Origin and Etymology of Relieve

The verb 'relieve' has its roots in the Old French word 'relever,' which is a combination of the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' or 'back,' and 'lever,' meaning 'to lift' or 'to raise.' This etymology reflects the idea of 'lifting again' or 'raising up' something that has been burdened or oppressed, much like alleviating or easing a weight. As Old French influence extended into Middle English, 'relever' became 'releven,' and eventually, 'relieve.' This linguistic journey underscores the concept of providing relief by lessening the intensity, pressure, or discomfort of a situation, akin to lifting a burden or easing a weight, making it a key term in expressing the idea of alleviation and comfort.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb relieve:

alleviate

aggravate

intensify

worsen

Try Again!

Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Relieve

1. Drinking herbal tea can relieve an upset stomach.
2. The emergency fund will relieve financial stress.
3. Yoga and meditation can relieve emotional tension.
4. Proper rest can relieve physical exhaustion.
5. The painkiller helped relieve her headache.
6. He sought meditation as a way to relieve stress.
7. Stretching exercises can relieve muscle tension.
8. Taking a vacation can relieve burnout and improve well-being.
9. The rain relieved the drought-stricken region.
10. Deep breathing can relieve anxiety in stressful situations.
11. Applying a cold compress can relieve swelling.
12. The massage therapist used techniques to relieve muscle knots.
13. Drinking herbal tea can relieve an upset stomach.
14. Laughter can relieve tension and boost mood.
15. The medication helped relieve her allergy symptoms.
16. A warm bath can relieve sore muscles.
17. Listening to soothing music can relieve insomnia.
18. Walking in nature can relieve mental fatigue.
19. A supportive friend can relieve emotional burden.
20. Applying aloe vera gel can relieve sunburn.
21. A good night's sleep can relieve fatigue.
22. Taking breaks during work can relieve eye strain.
23. A gentle hug can relieve feelings of loneliness.
24. Engaging in a hobby can relieve boredom.