1. (

• soften

) make (images or sounds) soft or softer ;

2. (

• dampen ,
• damp ,
• soften ,
• weaken ,
• break ,

) lessen in force or effect; "soften a shock"; "break a fall" ;

3. (

• yield ,
• relent ,
• soften

) give in, as to influence or pressure ;

4. (

• cushion ,
• buffer ,
• soften

) protect from impact; "cushion the blow" ;

5. (

• mince ,
• soften ,
• moderate ,

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

6. (

• soften ,

) make soft or softer; "This liquid will soften your laundry" ;

7. (

• soften

) become soft or softer; "The bread will soften if you pour some liquid on it" ;

1. (

• softened

) toned down ;

2. (

• dull ,
• muffled ,
• muted ,
• softened

) being or made softer or less loud or clear; "the dull boom of distant breaking waves"; "muffled drums"; "the muffled noises of the street"; "muted trumpets" ;