dimmer

[ dim-er ]

noun

1. a person or thing that dims.
2. Also called dimmer switch. a rheostat or similar device by which the intensity of an electric light may be varied.
3. dimmers,
   1. the low-beam headlights of an automobile or truck.
   2. the small, parking lights of an automobile.

dimmer

/ ˈdɪmə /

noun

1. a device, such as a rheostat, for varying the current through an electric light and thus changing the illumination
2. often plural
   1. a dipped headlight on a road vehicle
   2. a parking light on a car

Word History and Origins

Origin of dimmer¹

First recorded in 1815–25; dim + -er ¹

Example Sentences

“His talent, warmth and vision left an imprint on everyone who knew him, and the world is dimmer without him.”

From Los Angeles Times

“The ray of light that she always had was dimming. The more time that passed from the incident, the dimmer it got. Sadly.”

From BBC

The longer he remains out, however, the dimmer those chances become.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, the spotlight was far dimmer than it could have been.

From New York Times

Neptune, which is six times dimmer than Uranus, requires a telescope to be seen, according to Dyches.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blurred
• cloudy
• dark
• dingy
• dull
• faint
• fuzzy
• gloomy
• lackluster
• murky
• shadowy
• vague