[v] become soft or softer; "The bread will soften if you pour some liquid on it"
[v] make soft or softer; "This liquid will soften your laundry"
[v] lessen in force or effect; "soften a shock"; "break a fall"
[v] make less severe or harsh; "He moderated his tone when the students burst out in tears"
[v] protect from impact; "cushion the blow"
[v] make soft or softer; of images and sounds
[v] give in, as to influence or pressure