Reassurance Meaning and Definition
Reassurance
Pronunciation
not provided
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The act of providing or giving comfort, confidence, or security; a feeling of being reassured, calm, or confident.
Examples
- The words of encouragement provided me with reassurance.
- The doctor’s diagnosis gave my family reassurance about my recovery.
Synonyms
- Comfort
- Confidence
- Security
Antonyms
- Anxiety
- Doubt
- Fear
Additional Information
Reassurance is an essential aspect of human relationships, allowing individuals to feel secure and confident in their interactions with others. It can be expressed through verbal or non-verbal means, such as words of encouragement, physical touch, or simple gestures. Reassurance can also come from within, as individuals develop a sense of self-confidence and self-worth.
Reassurance can be particularly important in times of crisis or uncertainty, when individuals may be feeling anxious or fearful. In these situations, providing reassurance can be a powerful way to offer comfort and support.
Etymology
The word “reassurance” comes from the Old French “reassurenz,” meaning “reassurance” or “reconfirmation.” This term is derived from the Latin “reassurare,” which combines “re-” (again) and “assurare” (to assure).
Usage Notes
When using “reassurance” in a sentence, it is often helpful to specify the context in which it is being provided or received. For example, “The doctor’s diagnosis brought reassurance about the patient’s condition.” Alternatively, “The coach’s words of encouragement provided reassurance to the team.”
Cultural References
In popular culture, reassurance has been depicted in various forms of media, such as films and television shows. For example, the movie “The Fault in Our Stars” features a scene in which the protagonist’s parents provide reassurance to each other during a time of crisis.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “A weight off one’s shoulders” – the feeling of relief and reassurance that comes from solving a problem or overcoming a challenge
- “At ease” – a feeling of reassurance and comfort in a particular situation
Related Words or Phrases
- Support
- Comfort
- Security
- Confidence
Collocations
- “Give reassurance” – to provide comfort and confidence to someone
- “Take reassurance” – to feel comforted and confident
- “Seek reassurance” – to look for or ask for comfort and confidence
Frequency of Use
Reassurance is a relatively common word in modern language, particularly in the context of psychological and emotional support.
Common Misspellings
- Reasurance
- Reassuriance
- Reassurancee