damp squib

American  

noun

British Informal.

1. something meant but failing to impress or succeed.

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Etymology

Origin of damp squib

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

damp squib

Polling expert John Curtice told the BBC that Farage had been hoping for a "very substantial political circus" but may end up with a "relatively damp squib" if no one challenges him properly.

From Barron's ● Jul. 8, 2026

Guardiola's 100th Champions League match as City boss was a damp squib, in stark contrast to so many of the previous 99, which includes 62 wins and the club's maiden European crown in 2023.

From Barron's ● Nov. 25, 2025

But the much-anticipated showdown between two Heisman-candidate quarterbacks and national championship-quality teams had been a damp squib over the first two quarters.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 28, 2025

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 ● Dec. 22, 2023

But on Monday morning shops were open again; everything as normal as you please; and the cheerful prophets congratulated themselves that the explosion had proved a damp squib after all.

From Far to Seek A Romance of England and India by Diver, Maud