Synonyms

gently

American

[jent-lee] / ˈdʒɛnt li /

adverb

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

gentl(e) ( def. ) + -y ¹ ( def. )

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.

You have time to gently ease into taking withdrawals.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

And I feel so grateful that you’re treating me so nicely and gently.

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2026

Covered and gently poached, the whites turned tender while the yolks stayed gloriously runny — the entire point, frankly.

From Salon • May 12, 2026

During his opening statement, Molo gently reminded the jury that though Musk is a polarizing public figure, he still deserves a fair trial.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 10, 2026

I dug where Anna pointed, Maeve in the way, ears lifting gently in the wind.

From "Nory Ryan’s Song" by Patricia Reilly Giff

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023