Definition of "smooth over" [smooth over]

• To make (a rough surface) smooth (verb)
• To pacify (e.g. rumours) (verb)

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• "Hauptmann Leonhardt returned soon afterward and was able to smooth over the whole affair."
• ""Well now, Dave," said Roscoe, trying unavailingly to smooth over the ugly sound in Ward's voice."
• "Mary had just asked Mary Seton to bring her the elder flower-water to smooth over her shoulders and neck."