Tenderness

/ˈtɛndərnəs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The quality of being gentle, loving, or kind.
Her tenderness towards her children is evident in the way she cares for them.
A feeling of warmth or affection.
He expressed his tenderness through soft words and gentle gestures.
A sensitivity or softness of texture or feeling.
The tenderness of the meat made it easy to chew.
The condition of being susceptible to emotional or physical pain.
He approached the subject with great tenderness, aware of her recent loss.

Etymology

From Middle English tendernes, from Old French tendresse, from Latin teneritas.

Common Phrases and Expressions

tender touch:
A gentle and caring physical interaction.
tender heart:
A person who is compassionate and kind.
tender age:
A young age, particularly in childhood.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Softness or vulnerability, often related to emotions.
He's got a lot of tenderness in him, despite his tough exterior.
A term suggesting a caring or cuddly nature.
That puppy's so full of tenderness!