intenerate

[ in-ten-uh-reyt ]

verb (used with object)

, in·ten·er·at·ed, in·ten·er·at·ing.

1. to make soft or tender; soften.

intenerate

/ ɪnˈtɛnəˌreɪt /

verb

1. rare.
   tr to soften or make tender

Derived Forms

• inˌtenerˈation, noun

Other Words From

• in·tener·ation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of intenerate¹

1585–95; in- ² + Latin tener tender ¹ + -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of intenerate¹

C16: from in- ² + Latin tener delicate, tender ¹

Example Sentences

Intenerate, in-ten′e-rāt, v.t. to make tender.—n.

From Project Gutenberg

For we hold that the religious lessons of the unregenerate lack regenerating life; and that whatever in this all-important department does not intenerate and soften, rarely fails to harden and to sear.

From Project Gutenberg

The verb intenerate tried to turn out soften; and deturpate to take the place of defile.

From Project Gutenberg

Thou power that rul'st the confines of the night, Laughter-loving goddess, worldly pleasures' queen, Intenerate that heart that sets so light The truest love that ever yet was seen; And cause her leave to triumph in this wise Upon the prostrate spoil of that poor heart That serves, a trophy to her conquering eyes, And must their glory to the world impart; Once let her know sh'hath done enough to prove me, And let her pity if she cannot love me!

From Project Gutenberg

I know not whether I do not too much indulge the vain longings of affection; but I hope they intenerate my heart, and that when I die like my Tetty, this affection will be acknowledged in a happy interview, and that in the mean time I am incited by it to piety.

From Project Gutenberg