definition of
tenderness

[1] #1 tenderness n. a tendency to express warm and affectionate feeling. wn

[2] #2 tenderness n. [soreness, rawness] a pain that is felt (as when the area is touched); "the best results are generally obtained by inserting the needle into the point of maximum tenderness"; "after taking a cold, rawness of the larynx and trachea come on". wn

[3] #3 tenderness n. [tenderheartedness] warm compassionate feelings. wn

[4] #4 tenderness n. [affection, affectionateness, fondness, heart, warmness, warmheartedness, philia] a positive feeling of liking; "he had trouble expressing the affection he felt"; "the child won everyone's heart"; "the warmness of his welcome made us feel right at home". wn

[5] #5 tenderness n. [softheartedness] a feeling of concern for the welfare of someone (especially someone defenseless). wn