ENGLISH
REFERENCE

gentleness

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈdʒɛnəɫnəs// UK //dʒˈɛntəlnəs// gen·tle·ness

n. the quality of being kind, soft, and not causing pain or harm. You use this to describe someone who is calm and careful with their actions.

n. the quality of being kind, mild, or soft in manner or touch. Often associated with a lack of harshness or violence.


SIMPLE

The doctor's gentleness made the child feel safe.

CONTEXTUAL

Despite his large size, the elephant moved with a surprising gentleness as it approached the water.

COMPLEX

The poet's gentleness of spirit is evident in the way he treats even the most difficult subjects with a quiet, almost reverent tone.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Middle English gentilnesse; equivalent to gentle + -ness.

© 2026 English Reference