relents; relented; relenting
somewhat formal
1
: to agree to do or accept something that you have been resisting or opposing
Our application was initially refused, but the city relented in the end and the permit was issued.
They had refused to pay and relented only after being threatened with a lawsuit.
2
: to become less severe, harsh, strong, determined, etc.
He will not relent [=give up] in his effort to clear his name.
The winds would not relent.
Cite this Entry
“Relent.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/relent. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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