1175–1225; Middle English gentle, gentil
) < Old French gentil
highborn, noble < Latin gentīlis
belonging to the same family, equivalent to gent-
(stem of gēns
+ -īlis -le
gentleness, noungently, adverbovergentle, adjectiveovergently, adverbungentle, adjectiveungentleness, nounungently, adverb
clement, peaceful, pacific, soothing; tender, humane, lenient, merciful. Gentle, meek, mild
refer to an absence of bad temper or belligerence. Gentle
has reference especially to disposition and behavior, and often suggests a deliberate or voluntary kindness or forbearance in dealing with others: a gentle pat; gentle with children. Meek
implies a submissive spirit, and may even indicate undue submission in the face of insult or injustice: meek and even servile or weak. Mild
suggests absence of harshness or severity, rather because of natural character or temperament than conscious choice: a mild rebuke; a mild manner. 3.
manageable, docile, tame, quiet. 9.
harsh, cruel. 2.
violent, sudden. 7.