lenitive
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈlɛnɪtɪv/
KK: /ˈlɛnɪtɪv/
adjective
Definition
Able to reduce pain or discomfort and make things easier or more pleasant.
Example
The lenitive cream helped soothe her sunburn.
Conversation
I’ve been feeling really stressed lately and need something to help me relax.
Have you tried using that lenitive tea I recommended?
No, I haven't yet, but it sounds like it could really help.
Definitely! A warm cup is so soothing and lenitive after a long day.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
soothing
calming
relieving
Antonyms
harsh
painful
aggravating
noun
Definition
A type of medicine or substance that helps to soothe or relieve pain or discomfort.
Example
The doctor prescribed a lenitive to help ease her symptoms.
Conversation
I heard that a warm tea can be a great lenitive for a sore throat.
Really? I could use something like that right now.
Yeah, it really helps soothe the irritation.
Root Explanation
Lenitive → It is formed from "lenis" (from Latin, meaning soft or gentle) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "lenitive" refers to something that has a soothing or softening effect.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'gentle' ('lenis') and 'having the nature of' ('-ive') — that's why lenitive means something that soothes or softens.
Visually Confused Words
splenitive
genitive
sensitive
reunitive
plenitide
lamentive
unitive
leonite