soften

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Add red pepper flakes and dried oregano, letting them bloom in the fat just long enough to wake up—fragrant, a little toasty, the edges of their flavor beginning to soften and deepen.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

The International Energy Agency is currently assessing whether tapping reserves of oil further is needed to soften the blow from spiking prices.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

Banks may build provisions before improving later, while consumer demand could soften, they say, and prefer more defensive names for now.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

"With consumer sentiment also likely to be dented by the uncertain outlook and the prospect of rising energy costs, housing market activity is likely to soften," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

The ivy which used to soften the effect of that bright red facade had been stripped away, perhaps to preserve the brickwork.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan