“Braising and stewing dissolve the connective tissues and soften the meat by prolonged heating.”

“He hadn't even bothered to attempt to soften his words. His lack of consideration for her feelings left Lexie cold.”

“I knew that if I could get back on the yoga mat and move, some of the pain would soften, and my mood would lift.”

“Occasionally conifers push down from the valley sides to the water and the light softens, and there are ant heaps the size of sofas.”

“A set-in waistband hints at a waist, while the flared hemline softens a boxy shape.”

“Corydalis softens the edges of the birdbath, while, at front, heucheras mingle with orange-flowered geum.”