gently

adv

Etymology: From Middle English gentilly, gentlych, gentilliche, equivalent to gentle + -ly, with *-lely simplified to -ly by haplology.

1. In a manner characterized by gentleness

   “First, marinate the tofu. In a bowl, whisk the kecap manis, chilli sauce, and sesame oil together. Cut the tofu into strips about 1cm thick, mix gently (so it doesn't break) with the marinade and leave in the fridge for half an hour.”

2. In a manner characterized by gentleness

   “From Blackwater there is a more or less level run through gently rolling farmlands and downs to Merstone, with its island platform and passing loop.”

3. In a manner characterized by gentleness

   “I look at the world, and I notice it's turning / While my guitar gently weeps / With every mistake, we must surely be learning / Still my guitar gently weeps”

4. From a gentle or high-class family.

   “gently born”

5. In the manner of one of gentle birth; in a manner that reflects the traditional virtues of the gentry: courteously, nobly.