What is the definition of assuage?

Assuage means to make something unpleasant less intense or severe. It can be used to describe:

* Easing pain or discomfort: "The medication assuaged the pain in her back."

* Calming anger or anxiety: "He tried to assuage her fears about the upcoming surgery."

* Soothing strong emotions: "The apology assuaged her hurt feelings."

* Satisfying a need or desire: "The cool water assuaged her thirst."

In essence, assuage implies a process of making something less intense or severe, providing relief or comfort.