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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

Countercompounds that soften harmful side effects of major drugs.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Management also appeared to soften its forecast in the U.S.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 27, 2026

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

From Slate • Apr. 26, 2026

Then she adds in this last part to soften the blow: “But look, my plan worked. You got in, right? I’ll make it up to you and try to come to one of your rehearsals.”

From "Like Vanessa" by Tami Charles