showing gentleness, kindness, and affection

he was being so kind and tender

she covered his face with tender kisses

(of food) easy to cut or chew; not tough

tender green beans

(of a part of the body) sensitive to pain

the pale, tender skin of her forearm

young, inexperienced, or vulnerable

he started sailing at the tender age of ten

(of a ship) leaning or readily inclined to roll in response to the wind