soften in WordNet English dictionary

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