Main Entry: re·lent

Pronunciation: \ri-ˈlent\

Function: verb

Etymology: Middle English, to melt, soften, from Anglo-French relenter, from re- + Latin lentare to bend, from lentus soft, pliant, slow — more at lithe

Date: 1526

intransitive verb 1 a : to become less severe, harsh, or strict usually from reasons of humanity b : to cease resistance : give in
2 : let up, slackentransitive verb obsolete : soften, mollify

synonyms see yield