(n) a state of declining economic condition, Example:orders have recently picked up after a period of extreme softness; he attributes the disappointing results to softness in the economy
(n) the quality of weather that is deliciously mild and soothing, Syn. softness, Example:the day's heat faded into balminess; the climate had the softness of the south of France
(n) the trait of being effeminate (derogatory of a man), Syn. sissiness, unmanliness, effeminateness, softness, womanishness, Example: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
(n) acting in a manner that is gentle and mild and even-tempered, Syn. softness, mildness, Example: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
n. [ AS. s&unr_;ftness, s&unr_;ftnyss. ] The quality or state of being soft; -- opposed to hardness, and used in the various specific senses of the adjective. [ 1913 Webster ]