Softens

To make something less hard, firm, or rigid; to become more gentle, tender, or yielding. This can apply to physical materials, such as food or fabric, becoming less stiff or resistant, or to abstract concepts, such as emotions or attitudes, becoming less harsh or severe. Softening can also imply a reduction in intensity, such as sound or light becoming less pronounced. The process involves a change in the object or subject's characteristics, making them more agreeable, pliable, or less challenging to interact with or experience. The degree of softening varies depending on the context and the substance or concept involved, but the core meaning relates to a reduction in some form of rigidity or intensity.

Softens meaning with examples

• The chef added more water to the stew, hoping the longer cooking time would **soften** the tough pieces of meat, making them more palatable for the dinner guests. The process was slow, but gradually, the texture improved and the flavors melded together.
• After a long and arduous journey, the setting sun began to **soften** the harsh desert landscape, casting long shadows and painting the sky with warm, vibrant colors, creating a beautiful and tranquil atmosphere that was very pleasing.
• Hearing the news of her loss, her initial anger began to **soften** to grief and then eventually to acceptance of the fact that she would never see him again, which helped her move on with her life and to embrace the future.
• The new policies the company introduced tried to **soften** its rigid and formal approach to internal communication, creating a friendlier and more open dialogue for employees, which was welcomed throughout.
• When exposed to the humidity, the previously dry and brittle leather began to **soften**, becoming more pliable and easier to work with for the craftsman. The treatment was carefully carried out to avoid damaging the quality.