Pronunciation: /sɔftənd/
verb to make or become less severe or intense
A1 She softened her tone when talking to the children.
A2 The butter softened in the warm room.
B1 The company policy on late arrivals has been softened recently.
B2 His harsh words were softened by a sincere apology.
C1 The artist's use of pastel colors softened the overall mood of the painting.
C2 The government's stance on immigration has been softened in recent years.
adjective having a smooth or gentle texture; not hard or rough
A1 The fabric softened after being washed.
A2 She softened her tone when speaking to the upset customer.
B1 The butter was softened and ready to spread on the toast.
B2 His attitude towards the project softened once he saw the positive results.
C1 The artist's use of pastel colors softened the overall look of the painting.
C2 The politician's stance on the issue softened after hearing feedback from constituents.
formal The fabric was softened with a special conditioning treatment.
informal I softened my stance on the issue after hearing their argument.
slang She really softened up after he bought her flowers.
figurative His heart softened when he saw the puppy shivering in the cold.
softened
softened
softer
softest
soften
will soften
have softened
is softening
softened
soft
to soften
softening
softened