gently

American  

[jent-lee] / ˈdʒɛnt li /

adverb

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. softly; quietly.

   He sings beautifully and easily at full voice, yet sounds equally compelling when singing more gently and lyrically.

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Other Word Forms

• overgently adverb
• ungently adverb

Etymology

Origin of gently

gentl(e) ( def. ) + -y ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Accelerate gently and drive slowly, and be especially cautious around high-sided vehicles and when overtaking.

From BBC

“The Mouse That Roared,” a 1959 film, gently mocked the idea that every U.S. war was World War II, with the U.S. rushing in to reform and rebuild its enemies.

From The Wall Street Journal

Instead of bending or flexing, the robots generate an electrical field that gently pushes charged particles in the surrounding liquid.

From Science Daily

When Maduro continued to argue in court that he was wrongfully apprehended, the judge gently interjected, telling him there would be a time and place to make those arguments.

From The Wall Street Journal

He gently suggested to the boy’s mother that he might need a brace.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• lightly
• mildly
• smoothly