lenis
/ˈlɛnɪs
/ /ˈleɪnɪs / /ˈliːnɪs /adjective Phonetics
(Of a consonant, especially a voiced consonant) weakly articulated, especially denoting the less or least strongly articulated of two or more similar consonants. The opposite of fortis.
Origin
Early 20th century: from Latin, literally 'mild, gentle'.