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

By gently pulling apart the fillets with forceps and using a dissecting microscope, the team was able to count them accurately.

From Science Daily

When baked, the streusel should form a craggy, golden crust that cracks gently under a knife.

From Salon

So the Armstrong team employed a series of tests involving fancy scales and gently tipping the capsule.

From Los Angeles Times

She pats gently and pulls Mom to her feet, leading them around the building.

From Literature

The former broker said ants could also be harvested by gently disturbing the mound and collecting them as they tried to escape.

From BBC

Related Words

• lightly
• mildly
• smoothly