soften

verb

soft·​en ˈsȯ-fən 

softened; softening ˈsȯ-fə-niŋ 

ˈsȯf-niŋ

transitive verb

1

: to make soft or softer

2

a

: to weaken the military resistance or the morale of especially by harassment (such as preliminary bombardment)

—often used with up

b

: to impair the strength or resistance of

—often used with up

soften up a sales prospect

intransitive verb

: to become soft or softer

her face softened

softener

ˈsȯ-fə-nər 

ˈsȯf-nər

noun

Synonyms of soften

• weaken

Examples of soften in a Sentence

The butter will soften if left on the counter overnight.

The recipe called for one stick of butter, softened.

The oil is used to soften and preserve the leather.

The lotion softens dry skin.

The company has softened its stance on dating in the workplace.

Her face softened when he entered the room.

His criticism of the president has softened in the past year.

The grass softened my fall.

Recent Examples on the Web

Think sharp crops softened by length, or longer cuts styled with a deliberate edge. — Genesis Rivas, InStyle, 1 July 2026

In a heartbreaking moment, Paula asks why Trevor chose her, and Ashley softens a bit. — Erin Qualey, Vulture, 1 July 2026

Autumn softens the vistas along the Ring of Kerry and brings a quieter pace to the historic villages. — Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

Wrapping cheese tightly in plastic wrap can cut off the oxygen supply and trap moisture, leading to mold growth and spoilage, not to mention softening the rind of your beloved hard cheeses. — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Phrases Containing soften

• cushion/soften the blow
• soften up

Rhymes for soften

• boffin
• coffin
• offen
• often

Kids Definition

soften

verb

soft·​en ˈsȯ-fən 

softened; softening ˈsȯf-(ə-)niŋ 

1

: to make or become soft or softer

2

: to lessen the strength of

softener

ˈsȯf-(ə-)nər 

noun