Made less harsh (5)
I believe the answer is:
eased
'made less harsh' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for eased that I've seen before include "Soothed - assuaged" , "Alleviated" , "Calmed" , "Made less severe" , "Made less difficult, relieved from anxiety" .)