Softening
ˈsɒfnɪŋ
Definitions
2 meaningsTo make or become less hard, rigid, or severe.
ˈsɒfnɪŋ
Making something less harsh or intense
The warm water began softening the hard chocolate.
💡 Simply: It's like making something not so strong or harsh anymore. Imagine if you're mad, and then you soften your voice to sound nicer.
👶 For kids: Making something less hard or mean.
More Examples
The news softened the parents' initial anger.
She was softening her approach to dealing with the problem.
How It's Used
"The speaker was softening his tone to appear more approachable."
"The company is softening its stance on remote work."
The process of becoming less harsh, rigid, or severe.
ˈsɒfnɪŋ
The act or process of becoming less harsh or intense.
The softening of the steel made it easier to shape.
💡 Simply: It's the result of making something less hard or strong. Like when the weather softens, it means it’s not so cold anymore.
👶 For kids: When something is becoming less hard or tough.
More Examples
The softening of her expression indicated she had forgiven him.
The company’s announcement marked a softening in its earlier strict rules.
How It's Used
"The softening of the government's policy was welcomed by the opposition."
"A softening in market prices created new buying opportunities."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From Middle English 'soften', from Old English 'sōftian' ('to make soft'), related to 'sōft' ('soft').
The word 'softening' has been used since the 16th century, evolving in meaning from a physical change to a metaphorical one, describing emotions and political stances.
Memory tip
Think of a sculptor softening clay to make a form, but you're making things emotionally or physically less harsh.
Word Origin
"to make soft, to become soft"