tenderness

Noun (5)

1. a tendency to express warm and affectionate feelingType of affectionateness, fondness
2. 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”Synonyms: sorenessrawnessType of pain, hurtingKinds chafe, rebound tenderness, chafing
3. warm compassionate feelingsSynonyms: tenderheartednessType of compassion, compassionateness
4. 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”Synonyms: affectionaffectionatenessfondnessheartwarmnesswarmheartednessphiliaType of feelingKinds attachment, regard, soft spot, protectiveness
5. a feeling of concern for the welfare of someone (especially someone defenseless)Synonyms: softheartednessType of concern