quell - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
quell Word Meanings
- to suppress or put an end to something
- to calm or pacify someone
- to extinguish a feeling or emotion
quell Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
quell Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kwɛl/
US
/kwɛl/
quell Word Etymology
From Old English 'cwellan' (to kill, destroy) - a vivid image is of soothing a stormy sea to a tranquil calm, similar to the process of quelling a conflict.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Quell is a formal verb meaning to suppress, put an end to, or calm something that is unwanted. It can refer to actions that physically stop a disturbance, such as quelling a riot, as well as more abstract things like quelling doubts, fears, or rumors. In everyday speech, you will often hear quell used with nouns relating to conflict, unrest, or emotion. The tone is usually formal or journalistic, rather than casual. Quell is common in news reports, policy discussions, and writing about safety or public order. The past tense is quelled, the present participle quelling; note that the object of quell is typically a problem or feeling.
Usage Reminders
- Quell is used with a problem, disturbance, or emotion as the object.
- It's more formal than calm and common in news or policy writing.
- Common collocations: quell a riot, quell a rumor, quell fears or doubts.
- Past tense: quelled; present participle: quelling.
- Avoid using quell for casual, everyday annoyances.
Common Misconceptions
- It means to kill, despite its Old English root.
- It is a casual synonym for calm down in everyday talk.
- It can be used for minor annoyances, not just serious problems.
- It only applies to external events, not internal feelings.
- It cannot be used with emotions like fear or anger.
Thinking Differences
Think of quell as a formal tool to end or suppress a problem, not just soothe feelings; learners often overgeneralize to every small annoyance or use it in casual speech.
Learning Tips
- Focus on the object of quell: a problem, disturbance, or emotion.
- Use with nouns like riot, unrest, rumor, fear, doubt.
- Remember forms: quell, quelled, quelling.
- Practice formal contexts: news, reports, policy arguments.
- Differentiate from calm, soothe, or suppress depending on context.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'quell'?
A.To increase intensity
B.To calm or subdue
C.To celebrate joyously
D.To create chaos
Step 2: Usage
How is 'quell' used in a sentence?
A.They decided to quell the party and celebrate instead.
B.The teacher tried to quell the noise in the classroom.
C.She had to quell the excitement in her voice.
D.He wanted to quell his hunger with dessert.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'quell'?
A.Suppress
B.Encourage
C.Initiate
D.Amplify
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'quell'?
A.Mute
B.Calm
C.Instigate
D.Diminish
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'quell' is applicable?
A.During a protest, the police tried to quell the unrest.
B.Everyone was excited to quell the arrival of summer.
C.She moved on after they tried to quell her ambitions.
D.He wanted to quell the field with more players.
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