gently

[jent-lee]

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.

Other Word Forms

• overgently adverb
• ungently adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of gently¹

gentl(e) ( def. ) + -y ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Doncic’s midsummer U.S. tour was an effort to gently correct the record.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Indeed, when asked who he had in mind when writing that line about the sadness of white men who care, Harjo gently grinned and answered, “Everyone I know.”

Read more on Salon

If you have to move them, it is best to do so very gently and place them in a sheltered warm spot in your garden or an outbuilding.

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We lay on our backs and let the swells gently lift us, then fall.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

A leash was attached to the goat’s neck and used to pull her forward while a stick was used to gently push her from behind until she was finally able to pop out.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• lightly 
• mildly 
• smoothly www.thesaurus.com