tenderness Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. noun a tendency to express warm and affectionate feeling
   
2. noun a pain that is felt (as when the area is touched)
   soreness; rawness.
   
   • the best results are generally obtained by inserting the needle into the point of maximum tenderness
   • after taking a cold, rawness of the larynx and trachea come on
3. noun warm compassionate feelings
   tenderheartedness.
   
4. noun a positive feeling of liking
   heart; warmness; philia; warmheartedness; affection; affectionateness; fondness.
   
   • he had trouble expressing the affection he felt
   • the child won everyone's heart
   • the warmness of his welcome made us feel right at home
5. noun a feeling of concern for the welfare of someone (especially someone defenseless)
   softheartedness.
   

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