softener vs soften

softener is a noun but soften is not a noun.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
softener	Yes	No	No	No
soften	No	No	Yes	No

softener (noun)	soften (noun)
a substance added to another to make it less hard

softener (verb)	soften (verb)
	become soft or softer
	make soft or softer
	lessen in force or effect
	make less severe or harsh
	protect from impact
	make (images or sounds) soft or softer
	give in, as to influence or pressure