soften

Verb

• become soft or softer
  • The bread will soften if you pour some liquid on it
    

• make soft or softer
  • This liquid will soften your laundry
    

• make less severe or harsh
  • He moderated his tone when the students burst out in tears
    

• protect from impact
  • cushion the blow
    

• give in, as to influence or pressure

• lessen in force or effect
  • soften a shock
    
  • break a fall
    

• make (images or sounds) soft or softer

Related words

• Synonyms: 
  mince , moderate , cushion , buffer , yield , relent , dampen , damp , weaken , break
• Antonyms: 
  harden , indurate , stand , remain firm , sharpen