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Definition of allay

allay

/əˈleɪ/
al · lay
Past Simple:allayed
•
Past Participle:allayed
•
Present Participle:allaying
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allay Lexical Profile

allay Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To diminish, calm, or put to rest (such as fear, suspicion, or worry).

Example

"The mayor's transparent report helped to allay public concerns regarding the new water treatment plant."

2

To relieve or lessen the intensity of (such as physical pain, hunger, or thirst).

Example

"A cool glass of water did little to allay the hiker's intense thirst after the long desert trek."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for allay

• Nearby Words

allah
allamanda
allan
allay
allcomers
allegation
allege

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English allayen, derived from Old English ālecgan, meaning 'to lay down' or 'to put aside'. Its sense was later reinforced by Anglo-Norman aleier, from Latin alleviare, meaning 'to lighten'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Allay. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/allay
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