Word of the Day : September 18, 2018

lenitive \LEN-uh-tiv\ adjective

Definition

: alleviating pain or harshness : soothing

Did You Know?

Lenitive first appears in English in the 15th century. It derives from the Latin verb lenire ("to soften or soothe"), which was itself formed from the adjective lenis, meaning "soft" or "mild." Lenire also gave us the adjective lenient, which usually means "tolerant" or "indulgent" today but in its original sense carried the meaning of "relieving pain or stress." Often found in medical contexts, lenitive can also be a noun referring to a treatment (such as a salve) with soothing or healing properties.

Aired September 18, 2018

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