Relent

Verb

Definition: To abandon or mitigate a severe or harsh attitude, especially by finally yielding to a request.

Synonyms: Soften, Yield, Give in, Acquiesce, Capitulate

Antonyms: Resist, Persist, Continue, Endure, Hold out

Examples:

After hours of negotiation, the boss finally relented and agreed to give us a day off.
The relentless rain finally relented, and the sun came out.

Mnemonics:

Relent sounds similar to relent, which means to become less strict or harsh.
Think of relent as "releasing the relentlessness."

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English 'relenten', from Old French 'rallentir', from Latin 'lentare', from 'lentus' meaning "flexible" or "slow", related to 'lenis' meaning "soft".

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since Middle English and its meaning has remained relatively consistent over time.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Relentless pursuit"

Explanation:

Constant and unwavering effort to achieve something, often to a point of being harsh or unyielding. The phrase contrasts with the verb form of "relent," as it implies the opposite behavior.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "relent" with "repent".

Explanation:

While "relent" means to yield or become less harsh, "repent" means to feel regret or remorse for past actions. These words have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.