reassure
UK[ˌriːəˈʃʊə(r)]US[ˌriːəˈʃʊr]
v
to say or do something to remove someone's doubts or fears
v
to make someone feel less worried about a problem or situation
Morpheme Breakdown
re
assure
re
again
assure
make certain
Etymology
the word "reassure" is a relatively modern english formation, first appearing in the late 16th century. it was created by combining the latin prefix "re-," meaning "again," with the existing english verb "assure," which itself derives from the latin "assecurare" (to make secure). the literal construction implies the action of making someone secure or confident once more, or again. this etymological logic maps directly to the modern meaning: to restore a sense of certainty or comfort that had been lost or diminished.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + assure (make certain)
- re: a prefix of Latin origin, meaning "again" or "back," indicating repetition or restoration.
- assure: a verb of Latin origin (via Old French), from 'ad-' (to) + 'securus' (secure), meaning to make certain or confident.
Examples
the doctor tried to reassure the patient that the procedure was routine and safe.
he called home to reassure his parents that he had arrived safely.
the government's swift action helped to reassure the public during the crisis.