1. (

• softly ,
• quietly

) with low volume; "speak softly but carry a big stick"; "she spoke quietly to the child"; "the radio was playing softly" ;

2. (

• softly ,

) in a manner that is pleasing to the senses; "she smiled softly" ;

3. (

• lightly ,
• softly ,
• gently ,

) with little weight or force; "she kissed him lightly on the forehead" ;

4. (

• piano ,
• softly ,

) used as a direction in music; to be played relatively softly ;