Mildly, leniently; not severely, harshly, or rigorously; gently. In early use also: †painlessly, without suffering harm or injury (obsolete).

Softly, silently; gently.

Without excessive haste or force; steadily, carefully; gently. Frequently in conjunction with other adverbs, esp. (and in later use only) in fair…

Softly; †gently, mildly (obsolete). Also: timidly, feebly.

Gently, carefully, tenderly; in such a manner as to avoid causing pain or injury; without force or violence; with gentle action.

Without much force, intensity, or vigour; lightly, gently.

Gently, softly, cautiously; tardily. Often in hooly and fairly.

With delicacy or softness of touch, action, or treatment; softly, gently.

Softly, gently, mildly; leisurely. Cf. fair, adv. 5. Obsolete.

With little energy, force, or strength; †with gentle action, softly (obsolete).

In a gentle or careful manner; with a light or delicate touch, softly; (also) skilfully. In later use: with consideration for feelings of…

Gently, softly, quietly. Now rare and English regional (northern).

Without force, violence, or intensity in action, motion, effect, etc.; lightly, carefully, softly, slowly; gradually; in a quiet, moderate, or…

In a gentle manner. regional and nonstandard in later use.

In a manner involving or resembling breathing; with or as if with life or animation. Also: as softly as the breath.

In a bland manner; with gently flattering or soothing words or actions; mildly, gently, pleasingly.

Leniently, gently.

In extended use: quietly; delicately. Cf. piano piano, adv.

In a light, delicate manner; so as to resemble gauze.

With a creamy tint or surface; in a creamy or smooth manner; also figurative.