blackdamp

[blak-damp]

noun

Mining.

1. chokedamp.

blackdamp

/ ˈblækˌdæmp /

noun

1. Also called: chokedamp. air that is low in oxygen content and high in carbon dioxide as a result of an explosion in a mine

Word History and Origins

Origin of blackdamp¹

First recorded in 1830–40; black + damp

Example Sentences

Timbering was shattered, the ventilating system dam aged, and there was blackdamp as well as thick, choking coal smoke inside.

From Time Magazine Archive

Both books are packed with information on the technical details of coal mining, discussions of blackdamp, underground floods, explosions, entombments, but the picture that results is scarcely calculated to fill the patriots of either country with pride.

From Time Magazine Archive