The word “alleviate” is often used to describe the act of reducing or lessening the severity of something. It is a word that is commonly used in everyday conversation, but its true meaning and origins may not be fully understood. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “alleviate,” as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
To alleviate means to make something less severe or to ease a burden. It can also mean to reduce pain or suffering. The word is often used in the context of medical treatment or to describe the act of providing relief to someone who is experiencing difficulty.
Origin
The word “alleviate” comes from the Latin word “alleviare,” which means “to lighten” or “to lift up.” The word was first used in English in the 15th century, and it has been used ever since to describe the act of reducing or lessening something.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “alleviate” means “to make (something) less severe or to lessen the severity of (something).” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “to make (pain, suffering, or a problem) less severe or more bearable.”
Associations
The word “alleviate” is often associated with the act of providing relief to someone who is experiencing difficulty. It is also associated with medical treatment, as doctors and nurses often use the word when describing the act of reducing pain or suffering.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “alleviate” include:
- Relieve.
- Ease.
- Lessen.
- Mitigate.
- Diminish.
- Soothe.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of “alleviate” include:
- Aggravate.
- Worsen.
- Intensify.
- Exacerbate.
- Heighten.
- Increase.
The same root words
The word “alleviate” shares the same root word as the words “elevate” and “lever.” All three words come from the Latin word “levare,” which means “to lift up.”
Example Sentences
- The medication helped to alleviate his pain.
- The charity worked to alleviate poverty in the community.
- The therapist used relaxation techniques to alleviate her anxiety.
- The government implemented measures to alleviate traffic congestion.
- The ice pack helped to alleviate the swelling in her ankle.