Spanish Conversation · Level 42
75 words
Spanish word
tierno
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈtjeɾno/
Meaning
- adjectivegentle
Example
Tu madre es muy tierna con los niños.
Your mother is very gentle with the children.
More examples
El cachorro tiene una mirada tierna cuando duerme.
The puppy has a tender look when it sleeps.
Core concept
A warm, affectionate gaze between a parent and an infant.
Common phrases
voz tierna
tender voice
corazón tierno
tender heart
gesto tierno
tender gesture
Similar words
amable: Treats others with general kindness and friendly helpfulness.
cariñoso: Expresses warm affection and physical or verbal fondness toward someone.
dulce: Uses gentle, pleasant words or a mild manner that feels soothing.
gentil: Shows polite, courteous manners and respectful formality.
Definition in Spanish
Indica que alguien o algo provoca ternura por su dulzura, inocencia o aspecto blando.
Word origin
Derived from Latin tener 'soft, tender', Spanish tierno preserves both a literal softness and a tenderness of feeling.
Usage tips
- Often pairs with words like mirada, gesto, or voz (mirada tierna, gesto tierno, voz tierna) to mark an emotional, protective softness rather than general kindness.