If you soften something or if it softens, it becomes less hard, stiff, or firm. Soften the butter mixture in a small saucepan Fry for about 4 minutes, until the onion has softened
If one thing softens the damaging effect of another thing, it makes the effect less severe. There were also pledges to soften the impact of the subsidy cuts on the poorer regions. He could not think how to soften the blow of what he had to tell her
If your voice or expression softens or if you soften it, it becomes much more gentle and friendly. All at once, Mick's serious expression softened into a grin She did not smile or soften her voice
If you soften your position, if your position softens, or if you soften, you become more sympathetic and less hostile or critical towards someone or something. The letter shows no sign that the Americans have softened their position His party's policy has softened a lot in recent years Livy felt herself soften towards Caroline. harden