DictionarymoveEmotional effect
verb

move

To affect someone emotionally.

Her honest account of the rescue moves the audience.

Etymology

The physical verb for setting something in motion extended to inner feelings. To move someone emotionally is to stir feelings that had been at rest.

More examples

  • The final scene moved me to tears.
  • I'm deeply moved by your thoughtful letter.
  • Their courage moves her to speak up.

Forms

move · moves · moved · moving

movingly adverb — In a way that stirs emotion.

Similar words

touch
Often suggests a gentle feeling of gratitude or sympathy.
stir
Emphasizes awakening or intensifying emotion, not necessarily tenderness.