alleviate

[uh-lee-vee-eyt]

verb (used with object)

alleviated, alleviating 

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

Other Word Forms

• alleviator noun
• alleviative adjective
• alleviation noun
• unalleviated adjective
• unalleviatedly adverb
• unalleviating adjective
• unalleviatingly 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

Between 400 and 600 trucks were expected to enter to bolster existing aid deliveries and help alleviate two years of war and hardship.

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Its supporters foresee a wave of new construction that alleviates the state’s severe shortage of affordable housing.

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The regulator said it is also prepared to take measures to alleviate constraints on institutions and ensure the Canadian financial system can leverage its built-up financial resilience if needed.

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Then there’s the pounding, which super spikes have greatly alleviated.

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The compact acknowledges the crushing debt many college graduates face and seeks ways to alleviate the burden.

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Related Words

• allay 
• assuage 
• ease 
• mitigate