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
Let the slaw chill overnight so the cabbage softens slightly and the flavors settle into that signature KFC-style finish.
—
Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Dec. 2025
The hydrating and repair shampoo and conditioner duo is safe for damaged and color-treated hair and helps soften strands, reduce frizz, improve manageability, and restore shine.
—Iman Balagam, Vogue, 27 Dec. 2025
Soak seeds overnight in a bowl of water to soften the seed coat and discard any seeds that float.
—Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 26 Dec. 2025
Add the green onion and celery and saute for 5 minutes until softened.
—Laura McLively, Mercury News, 25 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for soften
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Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
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Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Dec. 2025
The hydrating and repair shampoo and conditioner duo is safe for damaged and color-treated hair and helps soften strands, reduce frizz, improve manageability, and restore shine.
—Iman Balagam, Vogue, 27 Dec. 2025
Soak seeds overnight in a bowl of water to soften the seed coat and discard any seeds that float.
—Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 26 Dec. 2025
Add the green onion and celery and saute for 5 minutes until softened.
—Laura McLively, Mercury News, 25 Dec. 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 31 Dec. 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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