(~s, ~ing, ~ed)
1.
If you ~ something or if it ~s, it becomes less hard, stiff, or firm.
Soften the butter mixture in a small saucepan...
Fry for about 4 minutes, until the onion has ~ed.
VERB: V n, V
2.
If one thing ~s the damaging effect of another thing, it makes the effect less severe.
There were also pledges to ~ the impact of the subsidy cuts on the poorer regions.
...He could not think how to ~ the blow of what he had to tell her.
VERB: V n, V n
3.
If you ~ your position, if your position ~s, or if you ~, you become more sympathetic and less hostile or critical towards someone or something.
The letter shows no sign that the Americans have ~ed their position...
His party’s policy has ~ed a lot in recent years...
Livy felt herself ~ towards Caroline.
? harden
VERB: V n, V, V
4.
If your voice or expression ~s or if you ~ it, it becomes much more gentle and friendly.
All at once, Mick’s serious expression ~ed into a grin...
She did not smile or ~ her voice.
VERB: V, V n
5.
If you ~ something such as light, a colour, or a sound, you make it less bright or harsh.
Stark concrete walls have been ~ed by a show of fresh flowers.
VERB: V n
6.
Something that ~s your skin makes it very smooth and pleasant to touch.
...products designed to moisturize and ~ the skin.
VERB: V n