'soother' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'sōþian,' where 'sōþ' meant 'truth' or 'calm.'

'sōþian' transformed into the Middle English word 'sothen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'soothe,' from which 'soother' is derived.

Initially, it meant 'to calm or pacify,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.