Softer: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'softer' is derived from the Old English 'softe,' which means 'gentle, mild, or tender.' This itself comes from the Proto-Germanic '*softwaz,' akin to the Old Norse 'sofn' meaning 'soothing, gentle.' The evolution of the word reflects a shift from its original physical connotation of material texture to a broader application encompassing emotional qualities such as kindness and gentleness. Throughout the Middle Ages, 'soft' was often used in a more poetic context, signifying not only the lack of hardness but also a tender or delicate nature. By the time it entered common usage in Middle English, it had taken on social implications, often describing characters or actions that were considered gentle or mild in disposition. The comparative form 'softer' allows for comparative expressions, indicating the relativity of gentleness or delicacy between subjects.

Ranked #11,403, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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• 11400 raced
• 11401 sucking
• 11402 orthogonal
• 11403 softer
• 11404 incline
• 11405 embodiment
• 11406 bedrock
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