To soften the blow of the layoffs, the company offered generous severance packages and career counseling.

In the Victorian novel, the author referred to women as the softer sex, a phrase that now sounds outdated.

He was softening up the board with polite compliments before asking for the favor.

She softens up the stern manager with a warm smile before every meeting.

After months of friendly visits, he softened up and agreed to help with the project.

If thou softenest thy words, men will be more inclined to listen.

As dawn breaks over the moor, the dew softeneth the bracken beneath the travelers' feet.

Analysts noted several softenings in the company's tone, which suggested a more conciliatory approach.

The new polymer is softenable at lower temperatures, making it ideal for molding delicate shapes.

Many households now invest in water softeners to prevent scale buildup on faucets and appliances.