How Do You Spell SOFTENER?

Pronunciation: [sˈɒfənə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "softener" is motivated by its pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is represented as /ˈsɒfnər/ where the stress falls on the first syllable. The letter "o" is used to represent the short /ɒ/ sound, followed by the letters "f" and "n" to indicate the consonants in the first syllable. The second syllable begins with the vowel sound /ə/, symbolized by the letter "e", and ends with the consonant /r/, represented by "r".

SOFTENER Meaning and Definition

1. A softener is a noun that refers to a substance, device, or mechanism that alters the hardness of water, fabric, or other materials, typically by removing or reducing the presence of minerals or other impurities. In the context of water treatment, a softener is designed to reduce water hardness by removing excessive amounts of minerals such as calcium and magnesium through a process called ion exchange. It is commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings to prevent the negative effects of hard water, which include the formation of scale in pipes and appliances, reduced efficiency of cleaning agents, and potential damage to plumbing systems.

   In the realm of textiles, a softener is a chemical agent used during the textile finishing process to impart a smooth, supple texture to fabrics. Softeners can improve the hand feel, drape, and overall comfort of textiles, making them more desirable for consumer use. They work by reducing the friction between individual fibers, thereby enhancing the flexibility and softness of the fabric.

   Overall, a softener is a versatile term that encompasses solutions for water treatment and fabric enhancement, both of which aim to improve the usability, quality, and sensory attributes of the substances they are applied to.

2. One who, or that which, softens.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for SOFTENER *

• softner 98.1865284%
• softerner 1.2953367%
• softenr 0.5181347%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for SOFTENER

• softnes
• sofened
• softeness
• softwaer
• sotener
• softned
• sofeter
• sofener
• softners
• softerners
• softenes
• soviener
• softeneed
• softee
• softene
• sofetner
• sofner
• softwer
• softeneer
• softenen
• souvener
• softend
• sofftened
• softees
• softeer
• soutene
• somener
• Hyghtener
• Softnur
• softpedel
• Sostaner
• Softediet
• Softeez
• Softiner
• softeney
• Softnery

Etymology of SOFTENER

The word "softener" derives from the verb "soften", which had already existed in Middle English as "souften". The word originated from the Old English term "sōfte", meaning "gentle" or "mild". In turn, "sōfte" can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "samftijaz". The suffix "-en" is used to form a verb from an adjective, turning "soft" into "soften", and eventually leading to the noun "softener".

Similar spelling words for SOFTENER

• softened,
• soften,
• softness,
• softening,
• soft on.

Plural form of SOFTENER is SOFTENERS