gently
Americanadverb
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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.
Mr. Mason has gently ironic fun with it all.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 28, 2026
Calmer ocean conditions around the UK in the summer months help to push jellyfish gently towards the shore, meaning there are often more sightings of the creatures.
From BBC ● Jul. 28, 2026
Let the pastries cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then gently loosen them with a small offset spatula or butter knife.
From Salon ● Jul. 20, 2026
As one character gently chastises her, “People can surprise you, Sonny, but you have to let them.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 14, 2026
Henry noticed Kate’s panicked look, and gently removed the upraised glass from her hands.
From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
