The term 'stroked gently' can be summarized by the crossword solution 'patted, ' which is a 6-letter word. To 'PAT' something is to touch it lightly and quickly with the flat of the hand, often in a gesture of affection or comfort. It is a common form of physical contact between people, such as when a parent pats a child on the head or back. It can also be used to describe the action of animals, such as when a cat rubs against its owner's leg.