adverb
gently
With little force or with kindness and care.
She gently lifts the sleeping baby out of the crib.
Etymology
The adverb applies gentleness to an action. It can reduce physical force or describe the care and consideration shown toward a person or thing.
More examples
- Stir the berries gently so they stay whole.
- He gently reminds her that everyone makes mistakes.
- The curtains sway gently in the breeze.
Forms
gently · more gently · most gently
gentle adjective — Using little force or showing kindness.
gentleness noun — The quality of being mild or kind.
Similar words
- softly
- Often emphasizes low volume or a light touch.
- carefully
- Emphasizes avoiding mistakes or harm, rather than mildness.
- kindly
- Emphasizes goodwill toward people, not reduced physical force.