alleviate

[ uh-lee-vee-eyt ]

verb (used with object)

, al·le·vi·at·ed, al·le·vi·at·ing.

1. to make easier to endure; lessen; mitigate:

   to alleviate sorrow; to alleviate pain.

   Synonyms: assuage, relieve, abate, diminish, lighten

   Antonyms: intensify, aggravate, strengthen, increase

alleviate

/ əˈliːvɪˌeɪt /

verb

1. tr to make (pain, sorrow, etc) easier to bear; lessen; relieve

Usage

See ameliorate

Derived Forms

• alˈleviˌator, noun
• alˌleviˈation, noun
• alˈleviative, adjective

Other Words From

• unal·levi·ated adjective
• unal·levi·ated·ly adverb
• unal·levi·ating adjective
• unal·levi·ating·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of alleviate¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English alleviaten, from Late Latin alleviātus “lightened,” past participle of alleviāre “to lighten, relieve,” from al- al- + levi(s) “light in weight” + -āre, infinitive verb suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of alleviate¹

C15: from Late Latin alleviāre to mitigate, from Latin levis light

Example Sentences

Practicing yoga, studies show, can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

From The Daily Beast

Nor will it alleviate the life-threatening concerns of those living in the conflict zone.

From The Daily Beast

“We can use rooftop solar to alleviate areas where supply is restrained,” he said.

From The Daily Beast

Most of them remain chained to their smartphones, scrutinizing the market to alleviate deal-making withdrawal symptoms.

From The Daily Beast

After a cocktail of PTSD meds failed to alleviate his symptoms, Kiernan says he was looking for a way out.

From The Daily Beast

They require, and in many instances they merit, all that can be done to alleviate a situation of servitude.

From Project Gutenberg

I had no conception of sorrows she could not alleviate; and I remember thinking—foolish child that I was!

From Project Gutenberg

Alas, it may be, she will impose on herself some rigid penance, in the hope that God may alleviate the sufferings of her brother!

From Project Gutenberg

There are compensating circumstances which should alleviate our sorrow.

From Project Gutenberg

The cough persisted in spite of all efforts of specialists to alleviate it.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• allay
• assuage
• ease
• mitigate