The spelling of "tender feeling" is straightforward in terms of English orthography. "Tender" is derived from the Old French "tendre," and "feeling" from the Middle English "fele," both maintaining their original spellings. In IPA phonetic transcription, "tender" is pronounced as /ˈtɛndər/ and "feeling" as /ˈfiːlɪŋ/. The stress falls on the first syllable in "tender" and the second in "feeling." Together, the phrase denotes a gentle, compassionate emotion that can arise from a multitude of situations, from heartache to joy.
Tender feeling refers to a gentle and delicate emotion typically associated with a strong sense of affection, care, or sympathy towards someone or something. This term is often used to describe a heightened sensitivity towards others, evoking a compassionate or nurturing response.
When experiencing tender feelings, individuals demonstrate a genuine and wholehearted concern for the well-being of others, often expressing this sentiment through acts of kindness, understanding, or support. These emotions are characterized by a tender, soft, and sympathetic disposition, fostering a sense of warmth and intimacy within relationships.
Tender feelings can manifest in various contexts, including romantic relationships, friendships, family connections, or even when caring for animals or nature. It entails a level of emotional vulnerability, wherein individuals allow themselves to be deeply affected by the happiness or suffering of others, often prompting a desire to alleviate any pain or distress.
This phrase is also closely related to empathy, as it involves the ability to intuitively understand and resonate with the feelings of others. Individuals with tender feelings are often inclined to offer comfort, solace, or encouragement in situations where others are hurting or in need of support.
Overall, tender feelings encompass a gentle and tender-hearted sentiment, promoting compassion, understanding, and a deep sense of empathy towards those around us.
The word "tender" has its origins in the Old English word "tendrian", meaning to kindle or set on fire, which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "tundjanan". This sense of "tendrian" evolved to mean delicate or gentle in Middle English.
The word "feeling" comes from the Old English word "fēlan" or "fēling", which means to perceive through the sense of touch or experience through emotion. This word is related to the Old High German word "fuolen" and the Old Norse word "fela".
Thus, the etymology of "tender feeling" comes from the combination of the Old English adjective "tender" (meaning gentle), and the Old English verb "fēlan" or "fēling" (meaning to perceive or experience through emotion or touch).