soften
verb (used with object)
had been softening
-
past perfect progressiveof soften.past perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Among them were two big musicals, “Frozen” and “Mean Girls,” that had been softening at the box office and chose to refocus their energy on touring.
From New York Times ● Sep. 13, 2021
Now Ester's heart had been softening under the influence of these peaceful Bible words.
From Ester Ried by Pansy
She put the length of plant she had been softening for the child back into her mouth.
From Planet of the Damned by Harry Harrison
The Principal's eyes, which had been softening, hardened again suddenly with anger and suspicion.
From Foe-Farrell by Sir Arthur Thomas Quiller-Couch
The shadowy remembrances which had been softening and fading in the lapse of years burst at once into life and being.
From The Cavaliers of Virginia or, The Recluse of Jamestown. Vol. II by William A. (Alexander) Caruthers
