noun
softening
Softening (noun) means the process of becoming, or making something, less hard, harsh, or severe. Example: “A softening of the market meant house prices finally started to fall.”
noun
1
The process of becoming, or making something, less hard, harsh, or severe.
"A softening of the market meant house prices finally started to fall."
"Doctors noticed a softening of the tissue around the wound."
How to use softening
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe gradual process of something becoming gentler, weaker, or less rigid — used for markets, attitudes, materials, and more.
Common pairings
softening of demand
softening in tone
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Word forms
- Plural
- softenings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A _____ of the market meant house prices finally started to fall.
Etymology
From Middle English softenyng, built from soften plus -ing.
Rhymes for softening
evening
opening
widening
awakening
happening
weakening
deafening
maddening
listening
gardening
sickening
fattening
See all rhymes for softening →
Frequently asked questions
What does “softening” mean?
The word “softening” means the process of becoming, or making something, less hard, harsh, or severe. In plain terms, the gradual process of something becoming gentler, weaker, or less rigid — used for markets, attitudes, materials, and more.
How do you use “softening” in a sentence?
Here is “softening” used in a sentence: “A softening of the market meant house prices finally started to fall.”
What part of speech is “softening”?
“Softening” is a noun.
Where does the word “softening” come from?
The word “softening” comes from Middle English. From Middle English softenyng, built from soften plus -ing.
