Definition

Having a kind and gentle nature, easily affected by the feelings of others.

Example

She is softhearted and always helps those in need.

Conversation

I really admire how softhearted you are with animals.

Thanks! I just can't help but feel for them when they're in trouble.

It's great to see someone who's so softhearted in today's world.

I think everyone should try to be a little more caring, don't you?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Softhearted → It is formed from "soft" (from Old English *softe*, meaning gentle or mild) and "hearted" (from "heart" which comes from Old English *heorte*, meaning the organ of feeling or emotion, combined with the suffix "-ed" indicating a characteristic). The word "softhearted" describes someone who is gentle and compassionate in their feelings.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'gentle' ('soft') and has a 'kind heart' ('hearted') — that's what it means to be softhearted.

Visually Confused Words