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

Even a stroll outside in the brisk autumn air can be dampened by the stray glimpse of a red baseball cap.

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However, his established history of drug use could dampen the projections.

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“ZEW sentiment data on Tuesday is expected to soften, with the focus on whether weaker current conditions dampen optimistic expectations,” Patrick Munnelly, Tickmill Group’s market strategy partner, said in a note.

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

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

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Related Words

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