1. The process of becoming softer
   "refrigeration delayed the softening of the fruit"; "he observed the softening of iron by heat"
    
2. An occurrence of control or strength weakening
   "the softening of requirements";
   - relaxation, loosening, slackening

1. Having a softening or soothing effect especially to the skin
   "The softening ointment provided relief for her sunburn";
   - demulcent, emollient, salving

1. Make soft or softer
   "This liquid will soften your laundry"
    
2. Become soft or softer
   "The bread will soften if you pour some liquid on it"
    
3. Make less severe or harsh
   "He softened his tone when the students burst out in tears";
   - mince, moderate
    
4. Lessen in force or effect
   "soften a shock";
   - dampen, damp, weaken, break
    
5. Become less severe or strict
   "The rules softened after the new director arrived";
   - relax, loosen
    
6. Protect from impact
   "soften the blow";
   - cushion, buffer
    
7. Give in, as to influence or pressure
   "He finally softened to his daughter's requests";
   - yield, relent
    
8. Make (images or sounds) soft or softer
   "The photographer softened the harsh lighting in the portrait"

Derived forms: softenings

See also: soft

Type of: accept, action, activity, alter, blunt, change, change intensity, consent, deaden, go for, modify, natural action, natural process, weakening

Antonym: harden, remain firm, sharpen

Encyclopedia: Softening