The term 'soften, in a way' can be solved by three different crossword solutions: 'MELT, ' 'PAD, ' and 'tonedown.' The word 'MELT' is a verb that means to become liquid or softer due to heat. The word 'PAD' is a noun that refers to a cushion-like material used to soften something. The word 'tonedown' is a verb that means to reduce the intensity or strength of something. All three words can be used to describe the action of softening something in some way.