1
as in appeasing
to lessen the anger or agitation of
employees soon learned that their hot-tempered boss needed to be gentled several times a day
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in caressing
to touch or handle in a tender or loving manner
soothingly gentled his cat's head as she was being treated by the vet
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in softening
to lessen the shock of
adding a bit of sugar to the salsa will gentle the hot spiciness of the chili peppers
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gentling
Verb
-
Nicholas has since let go of the fear of appeasing the beauty standards of others.—
Celeste Polanco,
Essence,
1 Apr. 2025 -
Knee-jerk reactions aimed at appeasing stakeholders can backfire, raising questions about whether initiatives are genuine or simply for show.—
Anjali Chaudhry,
Forbes,
23 Mar. 2025
Verb
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An iron deficiency may lead to nail changes such as softening and weakness.—
Carrie Madormo, RN,
Health,
24 Dec. 2024
-
Its intensely moisturizing formula features amino acids that make up the protein keratin (which is key for maintaining your hair’s structure and strength) and hair-softening plant extracts.—
Sara Coughlin,
SELF,
23 Dec. 2024
Verb
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This dual-zone mask delivers firming, elasticity-boosting care to the eye and cheek areas via a calming blend of cica, vitamin B5, and the brand’s proprietary White Duplex complex, which mimics the powerful nutrients in egg whites via 21 high-grade vegan ingredients.—
Annie Blackman,
Allure,
10 Apr. 2025
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The fact that Pickett has emerged recently with his ability to make shots and provide a calming presence on the floor, has provided a significant contrast to Westbrook’s style of play.—
Sam Amick,
New York Times,
10 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
Bell shared photos on her Instagram Stories of the comedian joining her backstage, patting powder onto her cheeks.—
Rachel Raposas,
People.com,
27 Feb. 2025
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The two critics congratulated him, patting him amiably.—
Anelise Chen,
The Atlantic,
25 Feb. 2025
Verb
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The soothing sound of water from the fountains, accompanied by the fragrant aromas of essential oils immediately ease the senses once inside the spa.—
Bianca Salonga,
Forbes,
6 Jan. 2025
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Simply pop them in a microwave to provide up to an hour of soothing warmth and comfort.—
Wayfair,
refinery29.com,
4 Jan. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Gentling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gentling. Accessed 28 May. 2025.
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