SOFTENED

Pronunciation (US):

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 Dictionary entry overview: What does softened mean? 

• SOFTENED (adjective)
  The adjective SOFTENED has 2 senses:

1. toned down

2. being or made softer or less loud or clear

  Familiarity information: SOFTENED used as an adjective is rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• SOFTENED (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Toned down

Similar:

modulated (changed or adjusted in pitch, tone, or volume)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Being or made softer or less loud or clear

Synonyms:

dull; muffled; muted; softened

Context example:

muted trumpets

Similar:

soft ((of sound) relatively low in volume)

 Context examples 

I saw Mr. Rochester smile:—his stern features softened; his eye grew both brilliant and gentle, its ray both searching and sweet.

(Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë)

There, the surprize was not softened by any satisfaction.

(Emma, by Jane Austen)

"You did then," said Elinor, a little softened, "believe yourself at one time attached to her?"

(Sense and Sensibility, by Jane Austen)

This was continued for a few moments; then it softened into a glad surprise, and from the lips came a sigh of relief.

(Dracula, by Bram Stoker)

“You have no mother?”—in a softened voice.

(David Copperfield, by Charles Dickens)

Jo's angles are much softened, she has learned to carry herself with ease, if not grace.

(Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott)

But if you will listen to his letter, you may perhaps be a little softened by his manner of expressing himself.

(Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen)

His had softened during the many generations since the day his last wild ancestor was tamed by a cave-dweller or river man.

(The Call of the Wild, by Jack London)

She was soon more softened and sorrowful.

(Mansfield Park, by Jane Austen)

At one moment she was softened, at another irritated; always distressed, but always steady.

(Northanger Abbey, by Jane Austen)