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Soften: meaning, definitions and examples

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soften

[ ˈsɒfən ]

Verb

^{Context #1 | Verb}

behavior

To make or become less severe, harsh, or strict. To moderate or tone down one's behavior or language.

Synonyms

alleviate, lessen, mitigate, mollify

Examples of usage

Taking a deep breath can help to soften your approach when discussing a sensitive topic.
She tried to soften the blow by adding a few positive comments to her critique.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

texture

To make something soft or softer in texture. To make something less hard or firm.

Synonyms

loosen, macerate, relax, tenderize

Examples of usage

She used a special fabric softener to soften the towels.
The butter will soften if you leave it out at room temperature for a while.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

sound

To make a sound less harsh or loud. To reduce the intensity or volume of a sound.

Synonyms

dampen, muffle, mute, quiet

Examples of usage

He asked the band to soften the music during dinner.
The sound of the rain helped to soften the noise of the traffic outside.

Translations

Translations of the word "soften" in other languages:

🇵🇹 amolecer

🇮🇳 मुलायम करना (mulayam karna)

🇩🇪 erweichen

🇮🇩 melunakkan

🇺🇦 пом'якшити

🇵🇱 zmiękczyć

🇯🇵 柔らかくする (yawarakaku suru)

🇫🇷 adoucir

🇪🇸 ablandar

🇹🇷 yumuşatmak

🇰🇷 부드럽게 하다 (budeureopge hada)

🇸🇦 تليين (talyīn)

🇨🇿 změkčit

🇸🇰 zmierniť

🇨🇳 使变软 (shǐ biàn ruǎn)

🇸🇮 zmehčati

🇮🇸 mýkja

🇰🇿 жұмсарту (zhumsartu)

🇬🇪 რბილად გაკეთება (rbilad gak'eteba)

🇦🇿 yumşaltmaq

🇲🇽 ablandar

Word origin

The word 'soften' originated from the Middle English word 'softnen', which is derived from the Old English word 'sēftan'. The concept of softening has been an essential part of human communication and behavior, allowing individuals to moderate their approach, tone, or texture. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass various contexts, from emotions and behavior to physical textures and sounds.