macerate

transitive verb macerated, macerating

1. to soften and break down into component parts by soaking in liquid for some time; specif., to soften and break down (food) in the digestive system
2. to steep (fruit or vegetables) as in wine or liquor
3. loosely to break, tear, chop, etc. into bits
4. to cause to waste away or grow thin

intransitive verb