tenderness

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a pain that is felt (as when the area is touched)

   the best results are generally obtained by inserting the needle into the point of maximum tenderness

2. 2
   noun

   Quality, state or condition of being tender.

   He picked her up in his arms with great tenderness.

3. 3
   noun

   A tendency to express warm, compassionate feelings.

   When the lovers were together, their cold indifference gave way to love and tenderness.

4. 4
   noun

   A concern for the feelings or welfare of others.

   When they saw the poor orphans, they were overwhelmed with tenderness for them.

5. 5
   noun

   A pain or discomfort when an affected area is touched.

   He noted her extreme tenderness when he touched the bruise on her thigh.

6. 6
   noun

   a tendency to express warm and affectionate feeling

7. 7
   noun

   a feeling of concern for the welfare of someone (especially someone defenseless)

8. 8
   noun

   a positive feeling of liking

Etymology

From tender + -ness.