damping

[ dam-ping ]

noun

, Physics.

1. a decreasing of the amplitude of an electrical or mechanical wave.
2. an energy-absorbing mechanism or resistance circuit causing this decrease.
3. a reduction in the amplitude of an oscillation or vibration as a result of energy being dissipated as heat.

damping

/ ˈdæmpɪŋ /

noun

1. moistening or wetting
2. stifling, as of spirits
3. electronics the introduction of resistance into a resonant circuit with the result that the sharpness of response at the peak of a frequency is reduced
4. engineering any method of dispersing energy in a vibrating system

damping

/ dăm′pĭng /

1. The action of a substance or of an element in a mechanical or electrical device that gradually reduces the degree of oscillation, vibration, or signal intensity, or prevents it from increasing. For example, sound-proofing technology dampens the oscillations of sound waves. Built-in damping is a crucial design element in technology that involves the creation of oscillations and vibrations.

Word History and Origins

Origin of damping¹

First recorded in 1750-60; damp ( def ) + -ing ¹( def )

Example Sentences

First go over the part to be coloured with the brush and clean water for the purpose of damping it.

From Project Gutenberg

Damping Off is the rotting off of cuttings or young plants near the surface of the soil.

From Project Gutenberg

Miss Poppleton received the suggestion with a coldness that was particularly damping.

From Project Gutenberg

The world supported his pretension; and her passion to serve as Chillon's comrade sank at a damping because it was flame.

From Project Gutenberg

Cecil, however, was determined to resist the damping influence as long as she could.

From Project Gutenberg