Meaning & Definition of Tenderness in English

1. A tendency to express warm and affectionate feeling

2. A pain that is felt (as when the area is touched)

• "The best results are generally obtained by inserting the needle into the point of maximum tenderness"

• "After taking a cold, rawness of the larynx and trachea come on"

3. Warm compassionate feelings

4. A positive feeling of liking

• "He had trouble expressing the affection he felt"

• "The child won everyone's heart"

• "The warmness of his welcome made us feel right at home"

5. A feeling of concern for the welfare of someone (especially someone defenseless)