tender
TEN-der
/ˈtɛn.dər/
showing gentleness, care, and delicate affection; sensitive to pain or soft in texture
Combines emotional softness and warmth with physical delicacy, vulnerability, or care.
The story behind the word. From Old French 'tendre', derived from Latin 'tener' (soft, delicate). Over time, the physical property of being soft or easy to cut expanded to human emotions characterized by gentle vulnerability.
Word relationships
- affectionate: Affectionate highlights outward feelings of fondness, whereas tender highlights physical gentleness and soft vulnerability.
- gentle: Gentle emphasizes mildness without harshness; tender adds a layer of deep warmth and loving care.
- harsh: Unpleasantly rough, severe, or cruel.
- callous: Emotionally hardened and unfeeling.
Commonly confused with
- tender (verb): The adjective tender means gentle and loving; the verb tender means to offer formally (e.g., to tender a resignation).
Word family
- tenderness (noun): gentleness and affection
- tenderly (adverb): with gentleness and care
Collocations
- tender moment
- tender care
- tender touch
- tender age
Idioms & expressions
- tender loving care (TLC)
Example sentences
- "The father held his newborn daughter with a tender embrace, careful not to wake her." Family relationships
- "She spoke in a tender voice that instantly comforted the frightened child." Narrative prose
Memory hook
TENDER = TEN-ion (tension) melts away into gentle care. Gentle, soft affection.
When not to use
Do not confuse this adjective sense with the noun/verb 'tender' (legal currency or offering a formal bid/resignation).
Fun facts
- The phrase 'tenderfoot' originated in the American West to describe newcomers unaccustomed to harsh outdoor living.
Related words
Explore more words
tenderness, affectionate, fondness, sentimental, affection, soothe
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