Dilation and effacement -- please explain!

I'm a FTM and I'm sorry for my ignorance on the subject. I had an appointment yesterday at 37+2 and the Dr said I'm dilated 1 1/2 to 2cm and that my cervix was very soft. I understand the dilation part, but I thought dilation and effacement went hand in hand? I tried reading about it, but I got confused. 😕 It's late, so I'm part brain dead lol He also said he could feel what he thought to be baby girl's head when he checked me...also, what does a soft cervix mean? I would've asked these questions yesterday, but he was really  behind schedule and was trying to rush.