softened; softening
ˈsȯ-fə-niŋ 
ˈsȯf-niŋ
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
: to become soft or softer
her face softened
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
Iope’s Retinol Super Bounce Serum softens signs of aging, smooths breakouts, and boosts skin’s natural bounce.
—
Lily Wohlner, Allure, 29 Nov. 2025
The long cook time brings out the meaty, savory notes from the ham and softens the beans until the broth becomes a silky, pot likker-like liquid.
—Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 29 Nov. 2025
Our tester, commerce producer Lauren Arzbaecher, noted that the seat cushions do feel firm at first, but soften with use.
—Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 29 Nov. 2025
Roast until edges of sprouts are lightly browned and cheese is softened, about 10 minutes more.
—Maddy Bendgen, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for soften
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Lily Wohlner, Allure, 29 Nov. 2025
The long cook time brings out the meaty, savory notes from the ham and softens the beans until the broth becomes a silky, pot likker-like liquid.
—Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 29 Nov. 2025
Our tester, commerce producer Lauren Arzbaecher, noted that the seat cushions do feel firm at first, but soften with use.
—Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 29 Nov. 2025
Roast until edges of sprouts are lightly browned and cheese is softened, about 10 minutes more.
—Maddy Bendgen, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for soften
Cite this Entry
“Soften.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soften. Accessed 30 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
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