alleviation

American  

[uh-lee-vee-ey-shuhn] / əˌli viˈeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act of alleviating.

2. something that alleviates or palliates.

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Etymology

Origin of alleviation

First recorded in 1615–25; from Medieval Latin alleviātiōn-, stem of alleviātiō, from alleviāt(us) “lightened” ( see alleviate) + -iō -ion

Explanation

Alleviation is relief from something that's disagreeable. Even though you love cats, you need a break from them sometimes if you ever hope for any alleviation of your allergy symptoms! This noun is used to describe the act of lessening discomfort, easing pain, or relieving anything that's unpleasant. The purpose of some medication is alleviation of pain, and the goal of certain government programs is alleviation of hunger and poverty. Alleviation is from the Medieval Latin alleviare, which means "to lift up or raise," but was figuratively used to mean "to lighten a burden."

Example Sentences

When Camille becomes the chair shortly after, she’s allowed the same alleviation.

From Salon • Feb. 18, 2026

This evaluation extended to the international community, which saw promise in Museveni's early strides on economic growth, poverty alleviation and combating HIV/AIDS.

From Barron's • Jan. 12, 2026

“Have the merciless persecutions and unutterable tortures of the dark ages not yet opened their eyes and enlarged their heart for the alleviation of their fellow men’s woes?”

From Slate • Apr. 10, 2025

Mr Cross said he was hopeful a flood alleviation scheme, which is being built a mile outside of the village, would "hopefully" solve the flooding problems.

From BBC • Dec. 31, 2023

“Not a ray of alleviation of the present calamity breaks in our city from any quarter,” he wrote to Julia.

From "An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793" by Jim Murphy

Related Words

• mitigation