Verbs

(v)softenmake (images or sounds) soft or softer
(v)dampen, damp, soften, weaken, breaklessen in force or effect“soften a shock”, “break a fall”
(v)yield, relent, softengive in, as to influence or pressure
(v)cushion, buffer, softenprotect from impact“cushion the blow”
(v)mince, soften, moderatemake less severe or harsh“He moderated his tone when the students burst out in tears”
(v)softenmake soft or softer“This liquid will soften your laundry”
(v)softenbecome soft or softer“The bread will soften if you pour some liquid on it”