[f. as prec. + -ING2.] That sweetens.
1. Imparting a sweet taste, smell, etc.; freeing from taint, purifying.
1707. Mortimer, Husb. (1721), I. 351. Sweetning Vapours of the Air.
1804. Bewick, Brit. Birds (1847), II. 204. When they have undergone a certain sweetening process before cooking.
1830. M. Donovan, Dom. Econ., I. 269. The sugar of the grape … differs from common sugar … in having less sweetening power.
1867. Smyth, Sailor’s Word-bk., Sweetening cock, a wholesome contrivance for preventing fetid effluvia in ships’ holds.
2. Rendering something pleasant or delightful; producing pleasant feeling or gracious disposition; † soothing.
1644. Bulwer, Chirol., 78. Drawing our Hand with a sweetning motion over the head.
1648. Owen, Right. Zeal Encouraged, Wks. 1851, VIII. 152. A close labouring in all his ways without the least sweetening endearments.
1810. Southey, Kehama, VIII. xi. No sweetening vengeance roused a brave despair.
1886. Dickie, Words Faith, etc. (1892), 135. He adds His sweetening blessing to it.
