relent
pronunciation
How to pronounce relent in British English:
UK [rɪˈlent]
How to pronounce relent in American English:
US [rɪˈlɛnt]
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- Verb:
- give in, as to influence or pressure
Word Origin
- relent (v.)
- late 14c., "to melt, soften, dissolve," from re- + Latin lentus "slow, viscous, supple" (see lithe), perhaps on model of Old French rallentir. Sense of "become less harsh or cruel" first recorded 1520s. The notion probably is of a hard heart melting with pity. Related: Relented; relenting.
Example
- 1. Economic necessity has prompted canberra to finally relent .
- 2. At first the indonesians were opposed to it , but soon they would be forced to relent .
- 3. Against growing political pressure and ever more clever assurances by beijing they eventually found reasons of their own to relent .
- 4. This artistic diaspora caused leo to relent somewhat and he allowed painted figures on the walls of eastern churches but continued the prohibition of sculpture .
- 5. Many analysts and developers have a rock solid belief that china 's property market would return to its former booming self if only the government would relent on property restrictions , particularly home purchase limits .