How to Memorize

allay - ease

Analysis

If you make something, particularly a feeling or emotion, go away or at least reduce it in intensity, then you have managed to ‘allay’ it. Such an outcome is most commonly achieved through calming and reassuring speech but is not limited to that. The word is frequently used in a professional context, especially in relation to business and politics.

Example(s)

1. The politician moved quickly to allay fears that she would raise taxes if she was elected by giving a speech outlining her true intentions in detail.

2. Initially, I was a little worried about investing in that business, but meeting its owner allayed my concerns.

3. Jennifer’s recent attempts to undermine me have certainly done nothing to allay my suspicions that she is gunning for my job.