softness
noun /ˈsɒftnəs/
/ˈsɔːftnəs/
[uncountable, singular]- the quality of changing shape easily when pressed; the quality of not being stiff or hard
- I rested back against the softness of the pillows.
- the quality of being less hard than average
- woods of moderate softness
- the quality of being smooth and pleasant to touch
- the softness of her skin
- the quality of not having sharp angles or hard edges
- the softness of the shadows in the moonlight
- the quality in light of being pleasant and relaxing to the eyes because it is not too bright
- the softness of the evening light
- the quality in rain or wind of not being strong or violent synonym lightness (3)
- the softness of the late afternoon breeze
- the quality of not being loud, in a way that is usually pleasant and gentle
- I knew it was him from the softness of his voice.
- the quality of being kind and showing sympathy; the quality of being easily affected by other people's pain and problems
- They mistook his calmness for softness.
- (usually disapproving) the fact of not being strict or severe, or of not being strict or severe enough synonym leniency
- Their softness on this issue has lost them a huge number of votes.
- (informal, disapproving) the fact of not being brave enough; the fact of wanting to be safe and comfortable
- He worked to erase his reputation for softness.
- (disapproving) the quality of not involving much work and being too easy and comfortable
- He spoke with contempt of the softness of modern life.
- the quality in water of not containing much calcium and other mineral salts and therefore being good for washing
- the softness of the water
- (phonetics) the quality of not sounding hard, for example ‘c’ in city and ‘g’ in general