quell
KWELverbMeaning to put an end to something, such as a riot or a rumor, often by force
Memory hook QUELL the YELL. The lunchroom roars with yelling until Coach Omar blows one sharp whistle, and the noise stops at once. He quells the yell.
The teacher quelled the giggling with a single raised eyebrow.
In context A rumor spread that the fair had been canceled, but the organizers quickly quelled it by posting photos of the rides already being set up.
Similar suppress, crush, put down, stamp out
Opposite incite, provoke, stir up