ENGLISH
REFERENCE

gently

adv.
US //ˈdʒɛntɫi// UK //dʒˈɛntli// gen·tly
  1. 1 softly or carefully (adv.)
    A2 Elementary

    doing something in a soft or careful way so you do not hurt anyone or break anything.

    performing an action with a light touch or minimal pressure to avoid injury or damage.

    Example

    He gently placed the sleeping baby in the crib so she wouldn't wake up.

    Example

    The nurse cleaned the wound gently, mindful of the patient's low pain threshold and the fragility of the surrounding skin.
  2. 2 gradually or slightly (adv.)
    B1 Intermediate

    moving or changing in a slow, smooth way that is not sudden.

    characterised by a moderate or gradual slope, curve, or rate of change.

    Example

    The path climbed gently up the hill, making it an easy walk for everyone.

    Example

    The ground sloped gently toward the riverbank, providing an ideal natural drainage system for the newly planted vineyard.
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  1. 3 kindly or calmly (adv.)
    B1 Intermediate

    speaking or acting in a kind and calm way.

    acting with a mild temperament or using a tone that is persuasive rather than forceful.

    Example

    She gently reminded him that he had forgotten to call his mother.

    Example

    The teacher corrected the student's mistake gently, ensuring the child felt encouraged to try the exercise again.
Origin

From Middle English gentilly, gentlych, gentilliche, equivalent to gentle + -ly, with *-lely simplified to -ly by haplology.

Idioms1 entry

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