Definitions

relief

[ri-leef] / rɪˈlif /

NOUN

remedy, aid; relaxation

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alleviation assistance comfort happiness help maintenance reprieve respite satisfaction support

STRONG

abatement amelioration appeasement assuagement balm break breather cheer consolation contentment cure deliverance diversion ease easement extrication fix hand handout letup lift lightening mitigation mollification palliative refreshment release remission rest restfulness softening solace succor sustenance

WEAK

allayment comforting load off one's mind quick fix

Antonyms

STRONGEST

hindrance hurt injury stop unhappiness

STRONG

annoyance check continuation sadness

WEAK

damage pain

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.

Her office has doled out a total of $5.4 million in funds to help provide relief to hundreds of small businesses in hot spots impacted by raids.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 14, 2026

There was no fully trained midwife and no pain relief allowed in labour.

From BBC • Jun. 14, 2026

They pursued, at no small risk, relief for the American colonies and restorative reform of the British constitution.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 12, 2026

At that point, the government had no choice but to seek emergency relief from the Supreme Court.

From Slate • Jun. 12, 2026

As she did, relief passed over the wolf, as if she’d taken a long, comforting sip of tea.

From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman

Vocabulary lists containing relief

The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 6

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The New SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The ACT Reading Test: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 6

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!