gently

adverb

JENT-lee/ˈd͡ʒɛntli/

5 meanings of gently

1
adverb
Softly, without using much force or moving fast.
Please close the door gently.
He gently patted the dog on the head.
Similarsoftly, lightly, tenderly, carefully, delicately
Oppositeroughly, forcefully, violently
Note
2
adverb
In a kind, mild way, or only a little at a time.
The road rises gently toward the hills.
My mom gently told me it was time for bed.
Similargradually, mildly, kindly, tactfully
Oppositeharshly, sharply, steeply, abruptly
Note
3
adverb
Quietly, without much sound or movement.
The old clock ticked gently in the hall.
The baby breathed gently in her sleep.
Similarsoftly, quietly, lightly
Oppositeloudly, noisily
4
adverbhistorical
Born into a family of high social class.
She was gently born but had to work for a living.
Only gently born boys could go to the old school.
Similarnobly
Oppositehumbly
Note

Less common meaning

5
adverbobsolete
In a polite and noble way, like a well-born lady or gentleman.
Note

Practice

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Origin

It comes from gentle + -ly.