<p><strong>Verb (used with object)</strong></p><ul><li>to make sweet, as by adding sugar.</li><li>to make mild or kind; soften.</li><li>to lessen the acridity or pungency of (a food) by prolonged cooking.</li><li>to reduce the saltiness of (a food or dish) by diluting with water, milk, or other liquid.</li><li>to make (the breath, room air, etc.) sweet or fresh, as with a mouthwash, spray, etc.</li><li>(in musical recording) to add musical instruments to (an arrangement), especially strings for a lusher sound.</li><li>Chemistry: to make (the stomach, soil, etc.) less acidic, as by means of certain preparations, chemicals, etc.</li><li>to remove sulfur and its compounds from (oil or gas).</li><li>Informal: to enhance the value of (loan collateral) by including additional or especially valuable securities.</li><li>to add to the value or attractiveness of (any proposition, holding, etc.).</li><li>to add more liquor to (an alcoholic drink).</li><li>Poker: to add stakes to (a pot) before opening.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used without object)</strong></p><ul><li>to become sweet or sweeter.</li></ul>