relent

UK: rɪˈlɛnt | US: rɪˈlɛnt

Definition

  1. vi. to soften in attitude or temper; become less severe or harsh

  2. vi. to slacken or slow down (e.g., "The rain relented by evening.")

Structure
re <again>lent <soft, bend>
Etymology

The word "relent" originally meant "to melt or dissolve" (from the idea of softening). By the 16th century, it evolved to describe a person "softening" their harsh stance or nature. The morpheme lent reflects flexibility, while re suggests a reversal—literally "to bend back" from rigidity.

Examples

  1. After hours of negotiation, the manager finally relented and approved the request.

  2. The storm relented, allowing the rescue team to proceed.

  3. She refused at first but relented when she saw his disappointment.

  4. The strict teacher rarely relented on deadlines.

  5. Winter relented, giving way to early spring warmth.