Definition
To completely negate or undermine someone's argument or position on a topic.
To humble or humiliate; put someone in his place.
In Context
- "'Ha! That's softened your cough. Now, we'll waste no more time out here gabbing,' and that leather, hobgoblin face became very, very businesslike."
- "Let me fill you in on a few minor details that may soften your cough."
- "'Everyone knows this place is an obvious front,' I go. 'You're laundering the moo you stashed in Andorra.' That softens his cough."
- "Because this was blameless Mike's third such 'surprise', Justice Carmel Healy decided she'd soften his cough by sticking him inside for a few months."
- "That's one thundering snotty bitch!” “Yeah,” Hanly said as he started the engine. “Thinks she's Marie Antoinette or some other high and mighty queen. I know it would only be a fine but it might just soften her cough a bit."
- "His father has mellowed, too; a bad hip has softened his cough."