soften

(v) make (images or sounds) soft or softer
(v) lessen in force or effect
- soften a shock
- break a fall
damp, weaken, dampen, break,
(v) give in, as to influence or pressure relent, yield,
(v) protect from impact
- cushion the blow
cushion, buffer,
(v) make less severe or harsh
- He moderated his tone when the students burst out in tears
mince, moderate,
(v) make soft or softer
- This liquid will soften your laundry
(v) become soft or softer
- The bread will soften if you pour some liquid on it

damp weaken dampen break relent yield cushion buffer mince moderate

sharpen remain firm stand harden indurate

softy

softie softly

softened softener softening