intenerate

[in-ten-uh-reyt]

verb (used with object)

intenerated, intenerating 

1. to make soft or tender; soften.

intenerate

/ ɪnˈtɛnəˌreɪt /

verb

1. rare,  (tr) to soften or make tender

Other Word Forms

• inteneration noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of intenerate¹

1585–95; in- ² + Latin tener tender ¹ + -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of intenerate¹

C16: from _in- ² + Latin tener delicate, _tender ¹

Example Sentences

Intenerate, in-ten′e-rāt, v.t. to make tender.—n.

From Project Gutenberg

For we hold that the religious lessons of the unregenerate lack regenerating life; and that whatever in this all-important department does not intenerate and soften, rarely fails to harden and to sear.

From Project Gutenberg

The verb intenerate tried to turn out soften; and deturpate to take the place of defile.

From Project Gutenberg

Thou power that rul'st the confines of the night, Laughter-loving goddess, worldly pleasures' queen, Intenerate that heart that sets so light The truest love that ever yet was seen; And cause her leave to triumph in this wise Upon the prostrate spoil of that poor heart That serves, a trophy to her conquering eyes, And must their glory to the world impart; Once let her know sh'hath done enough to prove me, And let her pity if she cannot love me!

From Project Gutenberg

Thus she contrives to intenerate the granite and felspar, takes the boar out and puts the lamb in and keeps her balance true.

From Project Gutenberg