To make softer. / (by extension, idiomatic) To appease someone in order to make them more receptive to an idea or proposal. / To become less committed to something.

plural of fabric softener

Any medication used to introduce water and/or fat to the contents of the patient's intestines, making those contents more likely to pass out in the feces.

plural of stool softener

A chemical agent used to prevent static cling and make fabric softer by coating the surface of the cloth fibers with a thin layer of chemicals; these chemicals have lubricant properties and are electrically conductive, thus making the fibers feel smoother and preventing buildup of static electricity; usually available as a liquid or as dryer sheets.

So as to soften.

To completely negate or undermine someone's argument or position on a topic. / To humble or humiliate; put someone in his place. / To ease or sooth someone's cough.

(idiomatic, often followed by for) To prepare or create favorable conditions (for something), especially with the intent of improving public acceptance of the forthcoming occurrence.

Alternative form of soften the ground