This means to change something from hard to soft. It is often used with foods or materials. For example, heating or adding water can make something softer.
You can soften butter by leaving it out.
Warm water will soften the bread fast.
This use means to make feelings or opinions less strong. For example, speaking more gently or changing thoughts a bit.
The teacher softened her tone with the students.
He softened his opinion after the talk.
This means changing behavior or speech to be nicer or less strict. It often refers to people being less harsh or more friendly.
Parents try to soften discipline with kindness.
His words softened after meeting them.
This use means to make light or colors less bright and less sharp. It can describe changing pictures or rooms to feel softer.
The curtains soften the bright sunlight in the room.
The photo was softened to remove hard lines.
In science, softening means making hard materials less strong or stiff by heating or chemical changes. It often helps in shaping or using the materials.
Heat can soften steel during metal work.
Water softens some types of stone over time.
This means making a strong taste or smell less strong or harsh. It is common when cooking or preparing food and drinks.
Adding sugar softens sour lemon juice.
The sauce is softened by cream.
This means someone becomes less strict or harsh inside. It often happens when people feel more kindness or understanding.
He softened after hearing their stories.
Her heart softened with time.
