Quell

/kwɛl/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to put an end to (a rebellion or other disorder), typically by the use of force.

The government deployed additional troops to quell the uprising.

to suppress (a feeling, especially an unpleasant one).

She tried to quell her anxiety before the big presentation.

to calm or pacify.

The mother spoke softly to quell the child's fears during the storm.

Middle English, from Old English 'cwellan' meaning to kill or put to death.

quell the storm

To calm or lessen a tumultuous situation.

quell one’s fears

To alleviate or reduce feelings of fear.

suppress

To forcibly put an end to something.

calm

To make or become tranquil and quiet.

pacify

To bring peace to, especially by the use of force.

To shut down something annoying.

Just quell that noise already!

To handle a situation effectively.

He really quelled that debate with his rebuttal.