Soft

Definition

Soft describes something that is easy to press, bend, or shape without breaking. It can also refer to a gentle or mild quality in sound, light, or behavior.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb (informally, as in "speak soft")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɔft/, /sɑft/
• Respelling: SAWFT, SAHFT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɒft/
• Respelling: SOFT

Etymology

The word "soft" originates from the Old English "sōfte," meaning "gentle" or "mild," derived from Proto-Germanic "*samftaz." Its roots trace back to the Proto-Indo-European "*sem-" meaning "one, together," indicating smoothness or ease.

Derivatives

• Softness (noun)
• Softly (adverb)
• Soften (verb)
• Softy (noun, informal)
• Softcore (adjective)

Synonyms

• Gentle
• Supple
• Mild

Antonyms

• Hard
• Rigid
• Harsh

Usage

The word "soft" is widely used to describe physical textures, sound, light, and emotions. For example, "The pillow was soft and comfortable," or "He spoke in a soft voice to avoid waking the baby."

Related Terms

• Silky: Smooth and soft to the touch.
• Cushiony: Having a soft, padded texture.
• Pliable: Easily bent or shaped without breaking.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Easy to press, bend, or shape: Refers to a material or object that yields to pressure.
  • Example: "The clay was soft and easy to mold."
• Mild in nature: Describes sound, light, or behavior that is gentle or not harsh.
  • Example: "The lamp emitted a soft glow."
• Emotionally sensitive or gentle: Refers to a person who is kind or tender-hearted.
  • Example: "He has a soft spot for animals."

Adverb (informal)

• In a gentle or quiet manner: Used to describe an action done without harshness.
  • Example: "Speak soft, or you’ll wake the baby."