soften
verb (used with object)
has softened
-
present perfectof soften (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
The benefit of returning to a story like this 20 years after a first viewing is that presumably, time has softened us.
From Salon ● Aug. 4, 2026
At the same time, the economy has remained relatively flat and the jobs market has softened.
From BBC ● Jun. 17, 2026
Teens and younger workers have experienced more hurdles to employment in recent years due, in large part, to the fact that the market for entry-level jobs has softened significantly.
From Barron's ● May 25, 2026
The administration has since said Iran has softened some of its points.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 11, 2026
Maybe this Red Cross work has softened her heart.
From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson
