Definition

Help or assistance given to someone in need, especially in difficult situations.

Example

The charity provided succour to the victims of the disaster.

Conversation

I heard you helped that family in need last week.

Yeah, they really needed some succour after losing their home.

That's so kind of you! It must have been a tough situation for them.

It was, but I'm glad I could provide some support.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Succour is derived from the Old French 'secours' (meaning help or assistance), which comes from the Latin 'succurrere' (formed from 'sub-' meaning under and 'currere' meaning to run). The word means to run to someone’s aid or provide help.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'running to help' ('currere' means to run and 'sub-' means under) when you hear 'succour' — it’s all about providing assistance.

Visually Confused Words