tenderness
word · lemma: tender
Definition
A feeling of gentleness, care, and affection. Also refers to physical sensitivity or soreness in a body part.
Usage & Nuances
The emotional meaning ("she looked at him with tenderness") is literary and warm. The medical meaning ("tenderness in the abdomen") is clinical and means pain when touched. Context usually makes the meaning clear.
Example Sentences
She spoke to the child with great tenderness.
basic
The doctor noticed tenderness in the patient's knee.
basic
His eyes were full of tenderness when he looked at his daughter.
basic
There was an unexpected tenderness in his voice that caught everyone off guard.
natural
If you experience tenderness or swelling around the wound, see a doctor immediately.
natural
The novel captures the quiet tenderness between two people who have grown old together.
natural