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ramollir

to soften, to go soft

verb rah-mol-EER Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Conditions

Origin: From Latin mollire (to soften), prefixed with re-

Usage Note

Ramollir describes either a physical process — butter ramollit in the heat — or a figurative one, where a person becomes mentally sluggish or spineless over time. The reflexive se ramollir is very common for both senses. The adjective ramolli ('softened', 'soft in the head') carries a mildly derogatory tone when applied to people.

Examples

"Le beurre ramollit rapidement au soleil."

Natural Translation

The butter softens quickly in the sun.

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