Attack of the Verbs: 2012!

As I teased in my final “Year of Win” blog post, I have a new theme in mind for 2012. As an unrepentant word nerd (so say we all!), I love learning about etymology and new/strange words. Which led me to ponder…for a writer, what’s more important than good, strong verbs? They helps us avoid those dreaded “to be” sentences, add color to our prose, and make our characters ACT.

In short, verbs rock!

Since there are 52 fine Fridays in 2012, I thought we could take a little trip around the alphabet—twice—and visit some fun/outlandish/awesome verbs.

So, without further ado, our first verb for 2012 is….*drum roll*

Assuage!

Why “assuage?” Okay, you caught me…I like how it sounds : ) But, besides that, assuage conveys a deeper meaning than just “satisfy” or “relieve.” It’s a strong, evocative verb.

Let’s start with the definition (via dictionary.com):


1. To make milder or less severe; relieve; ease; mitigate
2. To appease; satisfy; allay; relieve

3. To soothe, calm, or mollify


Assuage’s origins began sometime in the 13th century, in Old English. When you look at its Latin roots, the word comes from a derivative of suāvis – or “agreeable to taste.” Seems kind of strange, right? But in essence, “assuage” says “I’m making this painful thing more agreeable” – so it fits.

If your character feels like this:

Someone, or something, can assuage their pain/guilt/fear/anger, and make them feel like this:

Is assuage a verb you find you use? Or is it on a dusty closet shelf, waiting for the perfect moment to add color to your story?

I hope you enjoy the little trip we’re taking around verb-land – I am (but again, by admission, I’m a total nerd). By the way—special requests for a particular week are always welcome. Email me at kchighley(at)gmail(dot)com.


Next week? The Letter B….