If something tends to happen, it usually happens or it often happens. A problem for manufacturers is that lighter cars tend to be noisy
have a tendency or disposition to do or be something; be inclined; "She tends to be nervous before her lectures"; "These dresses run small"; "He inclined to corpulence
To be directed, as to any end, object, or purpose; to aim; to have or give a leaning; to exert activity or influence; to serve as a means; to contribute; as, our petitions, if granted, might tend to our destruction
vagueness You can say that you tend to think something when you want to give your opinion, but do not want it to seem too forceful or definite. I tend to think that members of parliament by and large do a good job
To accompany as an assistant or protector; to care for the wants of; to look after; to watch; to guard; as, shepherds tend their flocks
If you tend towards a particular characteristic, you often display that characteristic. Artistic and intellectual people tend towards left-wing views
manage or run; "tend a store" have care of or look after; "She tends to the children" have a tendency or disposition to do or be something; be inclined; "She tends to be nervous before her lectures"; "These dresses run small"; "He inclined to corpulence
If you tend someone or something, you do what is necessary to keep them in a good condition or to improve their condition. For years he tended her in her painful illness = look after
If you tend to someone or something, you pay attention to them and deal with their problems and needs. In our culture, girls are brought up to tend to the needs of others = attend
(usually followed by `to') naturally disposed toward; "he is apt to ignore matters he considers unimportant"; "I am not minded to answer any questions"
[ tend ] (verb.) 14th century. From Old French tendre (“to strech, strech out, hold forth, offer, tender”) Latin tendere (“to strech, stretch out, extend, spread out”). From Middle English tenden, by apheresis of attend.