verb
allay
uh-LAY/əˈleɪ/
To lessen an unpleasant feeling or concern.
The veterinarian helps allay the owner’s worry about his comfortable, alert dog.
Etymology
The original image is “laying down,” which developed into suppressing or diminishing something, including worry. Confusion with a verb meaning “alleviate, lighten” also helped shape the sense of easing distress.
In context
he was endeavoring to allay my suspicions by an extremely clever ruse.
More examples
- A clear schedule allayed concerns about the delay.
- He hoped the inspection would allay suspicion.
- The reassuring call did little to allay my anxiety.
Forms
allay · allays · allayed · allaying