# gentleness

/ˈdʒɛnəɫnəs/ (US) · /dʒˈɛntəlnəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gentleness
Updated: 2026-05-27

## Definition

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.

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

## Examples

- The doctor's gentleness made the child feel safe.
- Despite his large size, the elephant moved with a surprising gentleness as it approached the water.
- The poet's gentleness of spirit is evident in the way he treats even the most difficult subjects with a quiet, almost reverent tone.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.