The word "relents" is spelled with the letters "r", "e", "l", "e", "n", "t", and "s". The IPA phonetic transcription for "relents" is /rɪˈlɛnts/. The stress is on the second syllable, indicated by the apostrophe preceding the "l". The "e" in the second syllable is pronounced with a short "e" sound, "ɛ". The "t" at the end of the word is pronounced with an unvoiced "t" sound, "t̬". Overall, "relents" is a six-letter word that is pronounced with two syllables.
Relents is a verb that has multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used.
1. In its most basic sense, it refers to the action of becoming less severe or intense, usually in terms of weather conditions or a situation. For example, "The storm finally relented, and the rain stopped."
2. Another meaning of relent is to give in, yield, or soften one's attitude or position after previously being firm or resistant. This definition is often used in interpersonal or negotiation scenarios. For instance, "After much persuasion, he finally relented and agreed to lend her some money."
3. Relent can also describe the action of feeling sympathy or compassion, especially towards someone who is suffering or in a difficult situation. In this context, it implies showing kindness or offering mercy. For instance, "The judge, considering the defendant's circumstances, relented and reduced the sentence."
Overall, the word "relents" generally conveys the idea of a change, either in terms of a situation becoming less severe or intense, or in terms of someone being less resistant to an idea or request. It often implies a shift from a rigid or unyielding stance to a more flexible or compassionate one.
The word "relents" has an etymology that can be traced back to the Latin word "re-" meaning "back" or "again", and the Latin word "lentus" meaning "slow" or "flexible". In Latin, the verb "relentare" meant "to be less severe, to slacken, or to yield".
In the Middle English period, the word "relenten" was used with similar meanings, indicating a softening, becoming less severe, or showing mercy. Over time, it evolved to the modern English form, "relents", which still carries the idea of yielding or becoming less harsh in various contexts.