λεαίνω

1. to smooth or polish , (Homer); ἵπποισι κέλευθον λειανέω I will smooth the way, (Iliad by Homer)

2. to rub smooth, pound in a mortar , Lat. levigare, (Herdotus Historicus); to grind with the teeth, (Xenophon Historicus):—; generally, to crush, extirpate , (Herdotus Historicus)

3. to smooth away wrinkles, (Plato Philosophus):—;metaphorically to smooth or soften down harsh words, (Herdotus Historicus) (ML)