gentle

A person who is gentle is careful not to break or harm something that is easily broken or harmed. Sometimes the word "gentle" means soft.

• The mother held her baby in a gentle manner.
• You have to be gentle with a kitten or a puppy.
• Try to be gentle with that glass. It’s fragile.
• A gentle rain fell throughout the day.
• The gentle, elderly woman was kind to all of the people in her neighborhood.

The word "gently" is an adverb:

• The teacher spoke gently to the children.
• You have to handle that lamp gently or else it might break.
• The father gently laid his baby in the crib.

The words "gentle" and "man" form "gentleman." This word was once used to describe a man who was wealthy enough to avoid physical labor, but now it can be used in any situation as a way of showing respect to a man. This word is pronounced in the same way, whether singular or plural.

• Bob is kind and generous to everyone he meets. He’s a real gentleman.
• The gentleman in the brown jacket needs assistance.
• Ladies and gentlemen. May I have your attention?
• The gentlemen in the room met to discuss their future plans for the company.

He’s a real gentleman.

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December 7, 2014