Gentleheartedly

/ˌdʒɛn.təlˈhɑr.tɪd.li/ adverb

Definition

In a kind, compassionate, and sympathetic manner; with gentle and benevolent intention or feeling.

Etymology

From gentlehearted (adjective) plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly. This adverb allows describing actions performed with kindness and good intention.

Kelly Says

Adding '-ly' to adjectives transforms them into adverbs describing how something is done, but notice how rarely we use 'gentleheartedly'—most people just say 'kindly.' This shows how some grammatical forms survive in the dictionary even when speakers stop using them.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.