Definition

A person or thing that helps to reduce pain, stress, or difficulty, or in baseball, a pitcher who replaces another to help the team.

Example

The coach decided to bring in a reliever to finish the game strong.

Conversation

I heard the new pitcher is a great reliever for the team.

Yeah, I've seen him play; he really knows how to handle pressure.

It's impressive how a good reliever can change the game's outcome.

Absolutely! They can make all the difference in tight matches.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reliever → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "levare" (meaning to lift or alleviate). The word "reliever" refers to something that alleviates or lifts a burden again, providing relief.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'lifts' ('levare') a burden 'again' ('re-') — that's why a reliever is something that helps alleviate discomfort.

Visually Confused Words