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Synonyms

tender-hearted

American  
[ten-der-hahr-tid] / ˈtɛn dərˈhɑr tɪd /

adjective

  1. soft-hearted; sympathetic.

    Synonyms:
    compassionate

Other Word Forms

  • tender-heartedly adverb
  • tender-heartedness noun

Etymology

Origin of tender-hearted

First recorded in 1530–40

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.

No less outstanding were Caissie Levy as the tender-hearted Mother, who takes in Coalhouse’s girlfriend, Sarah, and their newborn child, and Brandon Uranowitz as the immigrant Tateh.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 26, 2025

In Burnett’s able hands, the album is chockful of exciting and, at times, tender-hearted turns.

From Salon • Jan. 10, 2025

But why would you do such a thing, asks the tender-hearted, green-skinned Elphaba, whose horror at his plan will eventually turn her into the Wicked Witch of the West.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2024

"He is a tender-hearted doctor. This is so regrettable. I pray for his safety and hope for justice for whoever is responsible," said a college student from the nearby city of Kobe.

From Reuters • Dec. 18, 2021

I was sullen and dependent on my mother's sole attention, tender-hearted, and whiney: the classic temperament of the artist but without anything to show for my bad character.

From "How the García Girls Lost Their Accents" by Julia Alvarez