gentle giant

American  

[jen-tl jahy-uhnt] / ˈdʒɛn tl ˈdʒaɪ ənt /

noun

1. a person or animal that may seem intimidating because of great size, strength, talent, influence, etc., but is surprisingly friendly and not aggressive or threatening.

   Don’t be afraid of my huge dog—St. Bernards are gentle giants.

   A towering figure among scientists, she was a gentle giant who made others feel at home as they learned the profession.

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Etymology

Origin of gentle giant

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

"He had his full life ahead of him, he was the most loving gentle giant you'd ever meet," she added.

From BBC • Aug. 28, 2025

Shaquille O’Neal was a dominant force in the NBA, a 7-foot-1 gentle giant who shattered boards, racked up four titles and left an indelible mark as one of the best centers in basketball history.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 23, 2025

“This gentle giant will be remembered for his quiet strength, easygoing nature, and heart of gold,” the San Diego Zoo Safari Park announced on Facebook.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 16, 2024

She fears the negative reaction he might get in public, adding he is a "gentle giant".

From BBC • Jan. 30, 2024

The gentle giant would whimper when he felt him, and thrash his shaggy head from side to side, but not as violently as he had the first time, back at Queenscrown.

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin