soften
sof-ten
verb
To make or become less harsh, severe, or intense.
"His gentle tone helped soften the news."
verb
To make or become less hard, firm, or rigid.
"Soften the butter before mixing."
Thesaurus
Synonyms: buffer, cushion, yield, relent, damp, break, dampen, weaken, mince, moderate
Antonyms: harden, indurate, remain firm, sharpen, stand