Which word means to soothe or soften?

The term "mollify" is defined as to soothe or soften someone’s feelings or emotional state. It originates from the Latin word "mollificare," meaning "to soften," which aptly captures the essence of calming or alleviating anger, anxiety, or aggression. When you mollify someone, you are effectively engaging in actions or using words that ease their distress or discomfort, leading to a more tranquil atmosphere or relationship.

In contrast, the other words provided do not carry the same meaning. "Myriad" refers to a countless or extremely great number, while "ponderous" describes something that is heavy or weighty in a physical or metaphorical sense. On the other hand, "penitent" signifies a feeling of sorrow or remorse for one’s sins or wrongdoings. Thus, in this context, "mollify" is the accurate choice reflecting the action of soothing or softening.