Definition & Meaning of "[take] the sting out of {sth}"

What is the origin of the idiom "take the sting out of" and when to use it?

The idiom "take the sting out of" likely comes from the idea of removing or lessening the pain associated with a bee or insect sting. By taking the sting out, you make the experience less painful or distressing. Over time, the phrase has been used metaphorically to describe reducing the impact or unpleasantness of various situations or experiences. People use this expression to mean alleviating or reducing the pain, discomfort, or negative impact of something.