softness Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. noun the property of giving little resistance to pressure and being easily cut or molded
   
2. noun poor physical condition; being out of shape or out of condition (as from a life of ease and luxury)
   unfitness.
   
3. noun the quality of weather that is deliciously mild and soothing
   balminess.
   
   • the day's heat faded into balminess
   • the climate had the softness of the south of France
4. noun a state of declining economic condition
   
   • orders have recently picked up after a period of extreme softness
   • he attributes the disappointing results to softness in the economy
5. noun a sound property that is free from loudness or stridency
   
   • and in softness almost beyond hearing
6. noun a visual property that is subdued and free from brilliance or glare
   
   • the softness of the morning sky
7. noun acting in a manner that is gentle and mild and even-tempered
   mildness; gentleness.
   
   • his fingers have learned gentleness
   • suddenly her gigantic power melted into softness for the baby
   • even in the pulpit there are moments when mildness of manner is not enough
8. noun the quality of being indistinct and without sharp outlines
   indistinctness; blurriness; fogginess; fuzziness.
   
9. noun the trait of being effeminate (derogatory of a man)
   womanishness; unmanliness; effeminateness; sissiness; effeminacy.
   
   • the students associated science with masculinity and arts with effeminacy
   • Spartans accused Athenians of effeminateness
   • he was shocked by the softness of the atmosphere surrounding the young prince, arising from the superfluity of the femininity that guided him
10. noun a disposition to be lenient in judging others
    
    • softness is not something permitted of good leaders

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