dampen

[ˈdæmpən]

dampen Definition

  • 1to make something slightly wet
  • 2to make something less strong or intense

Using dampen: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dampen" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The rain dampened our clothes.

  • Example

    The bad news dampened his spirits.

  • Example

    The negative reviews dampened the excitement for the movie.

  • Example

    The government's policies are dampening economic growth.

dampen Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with dampen

  • dampen someone's enthusiasm

    to make someone less excited or interested in something

    Example

    The long wait and poor service dampened our enthusiasm for the restaurant.

  • dampen someone's spirits

    to make someone feel less happy or optimistic

    Example

    The rainy weather dampened our spirits during the outdoor event.

  • to reduce the intensity of a fire by pouring water on it or restricting the air supply

    Example

    The firefighters worked to dampen down the flames before they spread further.

Origins of dampen

from Middle English 'dampnen', meaning 'to condemn'

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Summary: dampen in Brief

'Dampen' [ˈdæmpən] means to make something slightly wet or less strong/intense. It can refer to physical objects, emotions, or events. Examples include 'The rain dampened our clothes' and 'The negative reviews dampened the excitement for the movie.' Phrases like 'dampen someone's enthusiasm' and 'dampen someone's spirits' describe how it can affect people's feelings.

How do native speakers use this expression?