softening

/ˈsɔfənɪŋ/
noun
  1. The process of becoming softer or making something softer.
    • The softening of the leather took several hours of treatment.
    • Water softening removes calcium and magnesium to prevent scale buildup.
    • The softening of the butter made it easier to spread on the bread.
  2. A reduction in severity, intensity, or strictness.
    • The softening of the economy led to lower interest rates.
    • There has been a softening of the government's stance on immigration.
    • We noticed a softening in his attitude after he heard the news.
Synonyms
Antonyms
adjective
  1. Causing something to become softer or less hard.
    • A softening agent was added to the plastic to make it flexible.
    • The softening effect of the conditioner made her hair silky.
    • This softening cream helps reduce rough skin on elbows.
What does "softening" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean