palliate

/ˈpæliˌeɪt/

Definitions

1. verb

to make (a problem or symptom) appear less severe, but without dealing with the underlying cause

“The doctor prescribed medication to palliate the patient’s pain.”

2. verb

to make (a harsh or unpleasant situation) less severe or unpleasant

“The government measures were taken to palliate the economic crisis.”

3. noun

the act of making (a problem or symptom) appear less severe

“The palliation of the patient’s condition was a temporary solution.”

Synonyms

  • alleviate
  • ease
  • mitigate

Antonyms

  • aggravate
  • exacerbate