lull

A short period when there is less noise, activity, or trouble.

• There was a lull in the noise.
• We talked during a brief lull in business.
• The afternoon lulls gave the nurses time to rest.

How to use it: a lull in something (We went outside during a lull in the rain.)

Similar words: pause, break, respite

Common phrases: a brief lull, lull in conversation, a temporary lull

To make someone feel safe or relaxed when they should be more careful.

• Their friendly smiles lulled us.
• The low prices lulled buyers into ignoring the risks.
• Don't let a few good results lull you into feeling safe.

How to use it: lull someone into something (The quiet streets lulled us into a false sense of security.); lull someone into doing something (Early success lulled him into believing the job was easy.)

Similar words: disarm

Opposites: alert

Common phrases: lull someone into complacency, lull someone into thinking

To make someone feel calm and ready to rest or sleep.

• Her soft voice lulled the baby.
• The sound of rain lulled me to sleep.
• These gentle songs can lull even restless children.

How to use it: lull someone to sleep (The gentle rocking lulled him to sleep.)

Similar words: soothe, calm

Opposites: rouse

Common phrases: lull someone to sleep, lull the baby

To gradually become quieter, weaker, or calmer.

• The wind lulled at sunset.
• We waited for the storm to lull.
• The noise lulled briefly before the crowd began shouting again.

Similar words: subside, ease, abate

Opposites: intensify

Common phrases: let winds lull, begin to lull