(n) a substance (such as sodium chloride) that lessens the hardness of water by replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions and so gives the water more efficient sudsing power
(adj) being or made softer or less loud or clear, Syn. softened, muted, muffled, Example:the dull boom of distant breaking waves; muffled drums; the muffled noises of the street; muted trumpets
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English (GCIDE) v.0.53 Collaborative International Dictionary (GCIDE)