To put something or someone at rest means to calm or ease their anxieties, concerns, or worries, bringing about a state of tranquility or resolution. It implies resolving doubts, uncertainties or disagreements to achieve peace of mind and settling a matter conclusively. This expression emphasizes the act of soothing or pacifying one's mind or concerns to reach a state of inner peace and mental relaxation.
In practical terms, putting something at rest often involves providing clear and convincing evidence, logical reasoning, or a convincing argument that conclusively addresses and alleviates any doubts or concerns. This action aims to bring clarity to a situation, bring peace to conflicting parties, or provide certainty and confidence in a particular decision, surpassing any lingering hesitations or doubts.
This idiom can also be used when referring to placing physical objects in a state of rest, where they are no longer in motion. For example, in mechanics or physics, when an object is put at rest, it refers to decreasing or eliminating its velocity or movement.
In essence, putting something or someone at rest entails calming or appeasing their worries, uncertainties, or disagreements, bringing about a state of tranquility or resolution through providing reassurance, clarity, or resolving conflicts.
