gentle
[ jen-tl ]
/ ˈdʒɛn tl /
adjective, gen·tler, gen·tlest.
verb (used with object), gen·tled, gen·tling.
Nearby words
gentilesse, gentilism, gentility, gentisate, gentisic acid, gentle, gentle breeze, gentle craft, gentle sex, gentlefolk, gentleman
Origin of gentle
SYNONYMS FOR gentle
1 clement, peaceful, pacific, soothing; tender, humane, lenient, merciful. Gentle, meek, mild refer to an absence of bad temper or belligerence. Gentle has reference especially to disposition and behavior, and often suggests a deliberate or voluntary kindness or forbearance in dealing with others: a gentle pat; gentle with children. Meek implies a submissive spirit, and may even indicate undue submission in the face of insult or injustice: meek and even servile or weak. Mild suggests absence of harshness or severity, rather because of natural character or temperament than conscious choice: a mild rebuke; a mild manner.
3 temperate.
5 noble.
7 manageable, docile, tame, quiet.
9 courteous; polished.
Related forms
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for gentle
British Dictionary definitions for gentle
gentle
/ (ˈdʒɛntəl) /
adjective
verb (tr)
noun
a maggot, esp when used as bait in fishing
archaic a person who is of good breeding
Derived Forms
gently, adverbWord Origin for gentle
C13: from Old French gentil noble, from Latin gentīlis belonging to the same family; see gens
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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