dampen

[ dam-puhn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to make damp; moisten:

   to dampen a sponge.

2. to dull or deaden; depress:

   to dampen one's spirits.

3. damp ( def 11 ).

verb (used without object)

1. to become damp.

dampen

/ ˈdæmpən /

verb

1. to make or become damp
2. tr to stifle; deaden

Derived Forms

• ˈdampener, noun

Other Words From

• dampen·er noun
• un·dampened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of dampen¹

First recorded in 1620–30; damp + -en ¹

Example Sentences

The dampening down of expectations are the result of how Trump's first term turned out: the Kremlin had high hopes that a Trump presidency would transform US-Russian relations.

From BBC

People grew increasingly anxious, and the festivities were dampened, when the network’s John King said that Harris trailed President Biden’s performance in the 2020 election in key areas.

From Los Angeles Times

However, Palmieri wrote an update to her piece late Thursday reporting that the mood down in Florida has dampened a bit in recent days.

From Salon

"Affordability is also still relatively stretched at present as a result of the higher interest rate environment, which is acting to dampen housing market activity more generally," said chief economist Robert Gardner.

From BBC

A weekend storm expected to bring the region’s first precipitation since May should not arrive in time to dampen any victory celebration.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• allay
• chill
• cloud
• cool
• curb
• depress
• diminish
• discourage
• dull
• inhibit
• moderate
• mute
• restrain
• stifle