relieve implies a lifting of enough of a burden to make it tolerable.
took an aspirin to relieve the pain
alleviate implies temporary or partial lessening of pain or distress.
the lotion alleviated the itching
lighten implies reducing a burdensome or depressing weight.
good news would lighten our worries
assuage implies softening or sweetening what is harsh or disagreeable.
ocean breezes assuaged the intense heat
mitigate suggests a moderating or countering of the effect of something violent or painful.
the need to mitigate barbaric laws
allay implies an effective calming or soothing of fears or alarms.
allayed their fears
Example Sentences
I took a pill to relieve my headache. I wish I could relieve your suffering. What's the best way to relieve stress? She tried to relieve the tension by making a joke. an effort to relieve traffic congestion We need to find ways to relieve overcrowding in our schools. I've come to relieve the guard on duty. The soldiers were relieved by 30,000 fresh troops. See More
Recent Examples on the WebLeonard returned to the practice field last week after missing all of training camp at Grand Park as part of his rehabilitation from offseason back surgery to relieve the pressure two discs in his spine were putting on his nerves.The Indianapolis Star, 6 Sep. 2022 McConnaughey was airlifted to a local hospital and has since undergone numerous surgeries to relieve pressure on his spine and stabilize his vertebrae. Jason Duaine Hahn, Peoplemag, 31 Aug. 2022 City officials warned of the Pearl River flooding Friday, saying the Ross R. Barnett Reservoir had to release water to relieve pressure on the dam. Marlene Lenthang, NBC News, 29 Aug. 2022 This type of French drain is often called a weeping tile system and is intended to relieve hydrostatic pressure on the walls of the foundation. Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Aug. 2022 The breathable tape reportedly is designed to lift her skin and relieve pressure on her sinuses. Jason Williams, The Enquirer, 18 Aug. 2022 Leonard, who underwent offseason back surgery to relieve the pressure two discs were putting on a pair of key nerves, remains on the active/physically unable to perform list. Joel A. Erickson, USA TODAY, 11 Aug. 2022 According to its website, the original mattress offers support, helps relieve pressure and keeps one comfortable and cool throughout the night.al, 10 Aug. 2022 These bases offer the ability to elevate your head to relieve pressure on your airway. Grace Wu, Good Housekeeping, 4 Aug. 2022 See More
Word History
Etymology
Middle English releven, from Anglo-French relever to raise, relieve, from Latin relevare, from re- + levare to raise — more at lever