Search Dictionary
Definition of soften

soften

/ˈsɔːf.ən/
sof · ten
Adverb:softly
•
Adjective:soft
•
Past Simple:softened
•
Past Participle:softened
•
Present Participle:softening
JUMP TO:

soften Lexical Profile

soften Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make or become physically less hard, firm, or rigid.

Example

"Leave the butter on the counter for twenty minutes so it can soften before you mix the dough."

2

To make or become less severe, harsh, intense, or painful.

Example

"Thick curtains helped soften the glare of the afternoon sun and muffle the street noise."

3

To make or become more compassionate, gentle, or sympathetic in attitude or demeanor.

Example

"Her stern expression began to soften when she saw how apologetic the children were."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for soften
Antonyms
View all antonyms for soften

• Rhymes for soften

• Nearby Words

softcopy
softcore
softcover
soften
softener
softheadedness
softhearted

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as softnen, combining the Old English adjective softe ('gentle, mild, yielding to touch') with the verb-forming suffix -en.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Soften. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/soften
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.