tender

UK: ˈtɛndə | US: ˈtɛndər

Definition

  1. adj. soft or delicate in texture; easily chewed or cut

  2. adj. showing gentleness, kindness, or sympathy

  3. vt. to offer formally (e.g., a resignation or payment)

  4. n. a formal offer or vehicle used for transportation (e.g., ship’s tender)

Structure
tend <to stretch, care for>er <comparative or agent suffix>tend <to stretch, care for>er <comparative or agent suffix>
Etymology

The word "tender" traces back to Latin tendere, meaning "to stretch." Over time, it developed dual meanings:

  1. Physical softness (from the idea of something easily stretched or yielding).
  2. Emotional gentleness (from the notion of "stretching" care or attention toward others). The verb sense ("to offer") arose from legal contexts, where one "extends" a formal proposal.
Examples

  1. The meat was so tender it melted in my mouth.

  2. She spoke in a tender voice to comfort the child.

  3. He decided to tender his resignation after the meeting.

  4. The ship’s tender carried passengers to the shore.

  5. The government invited tenders for the new construction project.