v.tr. 1 bring or provide aid or assistance to. 2 alleviate or reduce (pain, suffering, etc.). 3 mitigate the tedium or monotony of. 4 bring military support for (a besieged place). 5 release (a person) from a duty by acting as or providing a substitute. 6 (foll. by of) take (a burden or responsibility) away from (a person). 7 bring into relief; cause to appear solid or detached. relieve one's feelings use strong language or vigorous behaviour when annoyed. relieve oneself urinate or defecate. relievable adj. reliever n.
[ ME f. OF relever f. L relevare (as RE-, levis light) ]