verb

quell

/kwɛl/ · say it: KWEL

to put an end to, often by force

In Actions & Behavior

In more detail

1. (verb) to stop or suppress something (such as a rebellion, protest, or rumor)

2. (verb) to calm or reduce an emotion or feeling (such as fear or doubt)

Examples

1. The police worked quickly to quell the riots in the city.
2. She took a deep breath to quell her anxiety before the presentation.

How to use quell

Quell is used in two distinct contexts: suppressing physical unrest (riots, uprisings) or calming emotional/psychological states (fears, anxieties). It carries a stronger, more authoritative tone than simply reducing or diminishing something. In political or security contexts, it often implies forceful action, while in emotional contexts it suggests deliberate reassurance or management.

Common phrases

quell a rebellion
quell a riot
quell fears
quell doubts
quell unrest

Synonyms

suppress · crush · subdue · calm · allay

Opposites

incite · provoke · stir up

Word family

quelled · quelling

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse quell with quilt or quench; quell specifically means to suppress or calm, not to extinguish fire or cover with bedding.

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