Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SOFT-EN, v.i. [sof'n.]

1. To become less hard; to become more pliable and yielding to pressure; as, iron or wax softens in heat; fruits soften us they ripen.
2. To become less rude, harsh or cruel; as, savage natures soften by civilization.
3. To become less obstinate or obdurate; to become susceptible of humane feelings and tenderness; to relent. The heart softens at the sight of woe.
4. To become more mild; as, the air softens.
5. To become less harsh, severe or rigorous.