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.

verb (used without object)

1. to become damp.

dampen

/ ˈdæmpən /

verb

1. to make or become damp

2. (tr) to stifle; deaden

Other Word Forms

• dampener noun
• undampened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of dampen¹

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

Example Sentences

China’s shift from a fixed tariff system to an auction-based model is also impacting project economics and dampening growth expectations.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

All these years later, the response has apparently not dampened his enthusiasm for the idea.

Read more on Salon

A popular, plain-speaking mayor enters the week talked up as a future leader — and is doing little to dampen that speculation himself.

Read more on BBC

The companies' struggles reflect the challenges for European manufacturers, who are faced with intense competition from Chinese rivals and a slowing economy that's dampening demand for luxury cars.

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However, Next expects sales growth to slow sharply due the economy outlook and dampened consumer spending.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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