RELENT

v. n.

6 definitions — Webster’s Dictionary (1828)

1.
v.

To become less rigid or hard; to yield; to dissolve; to melt; to deliquesce. [Obs.] He stirred the coals till relente gan The wax again the fire. Chaucer. [Salt of tartar] placed in a cellar will . . . begin to relent. Boyle. When opening buds salute the welcome day, And earth, relenting, feels the genial ray. Pope.

2.
v.

To become less severe or intense; to become less hard, harsh, cruel, or the like; to soften in temper; to become more mild and tender; to feel compassion. Can you . . . behold My sighs and tears, and will not once relent Shak.

3.
v.

To slacken; to abate. [Obs.] And oftentimes he would relent his pace. Spenser.

4.
v.

To soften; to dissolve. [Obs.]

5.
v.

To mollify ; to cause to be less harsh or severe. [Obs.]

6.
n.

Stay; stop; delay. [Obs.] Nor rested till she came without relent Unto the land of Amazona. Spenser.

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