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Definitions

soften

[saw-fuhn, sof-uhn] / ˈsɔ fən, ˈsɒf ən /
VERB
calm, soothe
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abate alleviate cushion diminish dissolve ease lessen lighten lower mellow melt mitigate moderate modify relax relent temper thaw tone down weaken
STRONG
allay appease assuage bend disintegrate enfeeble give knead mash moisten mollify palliate qualify quell still subdue tenderize yield
WEAK
become tender turn down
Antonyms
STRONGEST
aggravate agitate coagulate compliment excite heighten incite increase intensify irritate magnify rise solidify strengthen upset worsen
STRONG
disturb provoke
WEAK
trouble

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.

After parents' and employers' associations objected, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum appeared to soften the announcement, describing it as a "proposal".

From BBC • May 9, 2026

When pressed on this, Angle and partners emphasize that the Familiar’s wordless interactions inherently soften its approach, making it more like R2-D2 than M3GAN.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Is it a spoiler to say he’ll soften by the end?

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

Assassination attempts can also soften the tenor of how the media covers presidents.

From Slate • Apr. 26, 2026

Every time the girls are tested, she cannot soften a temperament or bestow talent.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton