Definitions

1. verb

to become or make something less firm or rigid

“The cold weather will soften the earth.”

2. verb

to make something less severe or harsh

“The government’s policies are trying to soften the impact of the economic crisis.”

3. verb

to reduce the intensity or degree of something

“The new policy is designed to soften the company’s stance on the issue.”

4. noun

a softening or becoming less firm

“The soften of the cheese was noticeable after it had been left out for too long.”