damp squib

noun

, British Informal.

1. something meant but failing to impress or succeed.

Word History and Origins

Origin of damp squib¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Plaid Cymru previously called the report a "damp squib".

From BBC

But as the nerves grew and the visitors became bolder, what should have been Villa's big night turned into a damp squib.

From BBC

But earlier this month, MPs on the Treasury Committee branded these measures - dubbed the Edinburgh Reforms - "a damp squib".

From BBC

MPs have branded a post-Brexit shake-up aimed at boosting growth in the financial sector a "damp squib".

From BBC

She described the Edinburgh Reforms as a "damp squib", due to "the lack of progress or economic impact."

From BBC