softening

From WikiWord, the free dictionary

English

Definitions

verb

To make something soft or softer.“Soften the butter before beating in the sugar.”
To undermine the morale of someone (often soften up).“Before the invasion, we softened up the enemy with the artillery.”
To make less harsh“Having second thoughts, I softened my criticism.”
To become soft or softer“The butter softened as it warmed up.”

noun

The process of making something soft.
The process of becoming soft.

Related words

Synonyms

soft demulcent emollient salving softness relaxing relieving easing alleviation allaying relaxation mitigation relief ease mitigating laxity

Rhymes

coffining often hung

References