amolecer
Amolecer is a Spanish verb that denotes the sense of becoming soft or tender, and, in broader use, of making something softer. It is found in regional varieties of Spanish and is less common in standard contemporary usage. In addition to physical softening, amolecer can be used metaphorically to indicate easing strictness, relaxation of rules, or a mellowing of attitudes.
The verb is built with the -ecer suffix, which in many Iberian and Latin American varieties signals
Amolecer appears in certain dialects of Spain and in several Latin American varieties where speakers may prefer
- Food and materials: La carne se amoleció al cocerse lentamente. The meat became tender through slow
- Objects: La madera se amolece con la humedad. The wood softens with moisture.
- Metaphorical use: Las normas se amolecieron tras la revisión. The rules were relaxed after the revision.