soften
v.v. to make something less hard, loud, or strong. You can use it for physical things like food or for feelings like anger.
v. to make or become less hard, firm, or severe in texture, tone, or intensity.
You should cook the vegetables until they soften.
The manager's voice began to soften once he realized the mistake was not the employee's fault.
The central bank may soften its stance on interest rates if the latest economic data suggests that inflation is finally coming under control.
From Middle English softenen, softnen, equivalent to soft + -en.
Can be used both transitively (to soften something) and intransitively (something softens).
- 01
soften someone's cough
To completely negate or undermine someone's argument or position on a topic.
- 02
soften the ground
To prepare or create favorable conditions (for something), especially with the intent of improving public acceptance of the forthcoming occurrence.
- 03
soften up
To appease someone in order to make them more receptive to an idea or proposal.