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damp squib

noun

British Informal.
  1. something meant but failing to impress or succeed.



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Word History and Origins

Origin of damp squib1

First recorded in 1965–70
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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"After so much hype, the SDR is a damp squib," he said.

From BBC

Conservative shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge called the plans a "damp squib", which was "underfunded and totally underwhelming".

From BBC

Plaid Cymru previously called the report a "damp squib".

From BBC

But as the nerves grew and the visitors became bolder, what should have been Villa's big night turned into a damp squib.

From BBC

But earlier this month, MPs on the Treasury Committee branded these measures - dubbed the Edinburgh Reforms - "a damp squib".

From BBC

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damp-proofDamrosch