to put an end to something, especially by using force or violence, to calm or reduce strong or unpleasant feelings

quell someone's fears, quell a rebellion, quell a disturbance

Formal and Informal Expressions of quell

In different contexts, you can replace 'quell' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'suppress, subdue' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'put down, squash' is a commonplace synonym.

quell: Explore its Definition & Usage

quell Definition

1to put an end to something, especially by using force or violence
2to calm or reduce strong or unpleasant feelings

Using quell: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "quell" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The police were called in to quell the riot.
Example
He tried to quell his anger.
Example
The company took steps to quell rumors of bankruptcy.
Example
The principal's speech helped to quell the students' fears about the new policy.

quell Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for quell

Antonyms for quell

Phrases with quell

quell someone's fears
to make someone feel less afraid or anxious
Example
The doctor was able to quell her patient's fears about the surgery.
quell a rebellion
to suppress or put an end to a rebellion or uprising
Example
The government sent troops to quell the rebellion in the capital.
quell a disturbance
to calm or stop a disturbance or commotion
Example
The security guards were able to quell the disturbance before it got out of hand.

Origins of quell

from Old English 'cwellan', meaning 'to kill'

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Summary: quell in Brief

The verb 'quell' [kwel] means to put an end to something, often through force or violence, or to calm or reduce strong or unpleasant feelings. Examples include 'The police were called in to quell the riot.' and 'He tried to quell his anger.' Phrases like 'quell someone's fears' and 'quell a rebellion' extend the meaning of 'quell' to specific contexts.