French word

tendrement

Pronunciation

IPA/tɑ̃dʁəmɑ̃/

Meaning

  • adverbtenderly

Example

Il l'embrasse tendrement.

He kisses her tenderly.

Illustration for tendrement (tenderly)

More examples

Il lui parle tendrement avant de partir.

He speaks tenderly to her before leaving.

Core concept

A soft look, voice, or gesture that surrounds another person with caring warmth.

Common phrases

  • tenir tendrement la main

    tenderly hold ___'s hand

  • chuchoter tendrement

    whisper tenderly

  • sourire tendrement

    smile tenderly

Similar words

doucement: In a soft, restrained, and calm way, without force or harshness.
gentiment: In a kind and polite way toward another person.
affectueusement: In a warm, affectionate way that shows fondness or goodwill.
amoureusement: In a loving way that expresses romantic feelings.

Definition in French

tendrement — adverbe qui qualifie une action faite avec douceur et chaleur affective, souvent employé pour un geste, un regard ou une parole.

Word origin

The adverb combines tendre, meaning gentle or affectionate, with -ment, a suffix that forms French adverbs of manner.

Usage tips

  • Tendrement signals affection, whereas doucement can describe gentleness, quietness, or slowness without implying affection.

Other meanings

  • lovinglyadverb

Opposites

  • durementharshlyadverb
  • cruellementcruellyadverb

Related words

Word lists with this word