Reassurances

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The act of delivering statements that provide confidence or support to dispel uncertainty
2. Words or actions intended to make someone feel less worried or uncertain
3. Expressions meant to calm fears and encourage belief in a positive outcome

Etymology: The noun's history runs back to a Latin word for freedom from worry. "Securus" joined "se-" (without) to "cura" (care), so to be secure was literally to be without care. Latin "assecurare" added a prefix meaning "to make secure," and this passed through Old French "asseurer" into English "assure," which is the base of "reassurance." The "re-" prefix adds the sense of doing it again, so a reassurance is a fresh act of making someone feel safe. The plural "reassurances" counts separate instances of this comfort, such as repeated soothing statements offered over time or in different situations.

Synonyms: comforts, consolations, encouragements, promises, certainties

Antonyms: doubts, uncertainties, fears, anxieties, worries