- present participle of reassure.
reassuring
Americanadjective
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of reassuring
First recorded in 1700–10; reassur(e) ( def. ) + -ing 2 ( def. ) for the adjective senses; reassur(e) ( def. ) + -ing 1 ( def. ) for the noun sense
Explanation
Something reassuring comforts or inspires you. A reassuring smile can help to calm a nervous speaker who's about to give a speech. When you're anxious about singing in the talent show, some reassuring words from your best friend or your dad's reassuring hug can make you feel much more relaxed and confident. And fearful flyers sometimes find the calm voice of the captain reassuring. This adjective comes from the verb reassure, or "restore to confidence," which adds re-, or "again," to assure, which has the Latin root securus, "safe or secure."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I want to be there, waiting for brunch, with the reassuring knowledge that the restaurant is handling the details.
From Salon ● Oct. 17, 2026
Special Order 40 was aimed at reassuring the city’s immigrants that they could safely report a crime or serve as a witness without fear of deportation.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 16, 2026
But some messages are likely aimed at reassuring investors about costs rather than describing net-new budget additions, said Brian Wieser, founder of consulting firm Madison & Wall.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 12, 2026
History offers a more reassuring outlook once a bull market turns four years old.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 11, 2026
Mrs. Clarke’s tone was reassuring, but she had a businesslike look about her, for there was much to be done.
From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood
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