noun
relief
rih-LEEF/rɪˈliːf/
The easing of suffering or difficulty.
The father feels relief as his missing child returns safely.
Etymology
Lifting or lightening supplies the image, with re- perhaps adding emphasis. Through the sense of easing distress, relief names the reassurance felt when a burden of pain or worry lessens.
In context
relocate the pain, shoving it off your own shoulders and onto someone else's, which feels for one brief and cowardly moment like relief.
More examples
- He sighs with relief when he finds his wallet.
- The lower monthly payment offers some financial relief.
- Volunteers deliver emergency relief to families after the flood.
Forms
relief
relieve verb — To lessen pain, distress, or difficulty.
Similar words
- alleviation
- Emphasizes reducing pain or hardship rather than providing practical aid.
- respite
- Suggests a temporary break from difficulty, not necessarily its reduction.
- assistance
- Means practical help, which may or may not ease distress.