gently
Americanadverb
-
in a kind and amiable manner.
When a child makes a social mistake, an adult should gently and clearly explain what to do in the future to replace the inappropriate behavior.
-
in a way that is not rough, harsh, or violent.
New or gently used toys, for both indoor and outdoor use, are requested for donation.
-
in a way that is not extreme; moderately.
The ground sloped gently downward until it was almost level with the land on the other side of the stream.
-
softly; quietly.
He sings beautifully and easily at full voice, yet sounds equally compelling when singing more gently and lyrically.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of gently
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
By offering a repayment schedule, your stepmother is gently — or not so gently — attempting to twist your arm by presenting this request almost as a fait accompli.
From MarketWatch ● Nov. 2, 2026
ISRAEL—In Tel Aviv, one of Israel’s more liberal hubs, Ben Friedhaim sits with his young daughter in HaKnesset Square as waves gently lap onto the nearby beach just days before the election.
From Slate ● Oct. 28, 2026
He looks up at her, smiles gently and nods in acknowledgment.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 27, 2026
In “Metakosmos,” the piano’s strings are often used as though they are a giant guitar, with themes and riffs plucked, strummed and struck, gently or insistently.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 26, 2026
I close the book gently and turn off the lamp, but the chaos in the next room has already woken Harlow.
From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller
Random Word
Spin the wheel and learn a new word!
Get a wordDefinitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
