relief

Definition

  • noun: a pleasant and relaxed feeling that someone has when something unpleasant stops or does not happen
  • noun: a payment made by a male feudal tenant to his lord on succeeding to an inherited estate
  • often used before another noun
  • synonyms: adc, cysp sculpture, medicaid

Examples

  • Her political activism throws the apathy of others into sharp 'relief'. [=makes the apathy of others very noticeable]

  • His character provides a little 'comic relief' in what is otherwise a very serious and dramatic movie.

  • Just one day of sunshine would be a welcome 'relief' from the rainy weather we've been having lately.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) I appeal to the Senator. Is he fully aware - - that this bill has been months in both Houses, delayed and delayed? - Many'll be without food and shelter. - Shall we keep relief from the country? The people of my state need permanent relief from crooked men! If we yield to blackmail from this man, (..)
    1939 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
  • (..) than five minutes on any section. The clerk will read. The bill providing for deficiency appropriations for the fiscal year. Section one: Emergency relief. To create public improvements - - on rivers, harbors and roadways. billion dollars. Section : An appropriation for diverting and impounding - (..)
    1939 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington