definition of
[soften]

[1] #1 soften v. make (images or sounds) soft or softer. wn

[2] #2 soften v. [dampen, damp, weaken, break] lessen in force or effect; "soften a shock"; "break a fall". wn

[3] #3 soften v. [yield, relent] give in, as to influence or pressure. wn

[4] #4 soften v. [cushion, buffer] protect from impact; "cushion the blow". wn

[5] #5 soften v. [mince, moderate] make less severe or harsh; "He moderated his tone when the students burst out in tears". wn