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

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

It succeeded, at the very least, in damping down the Cold War between the U.S. and the Soviet Union enough that it never escalated into civilization-ending apocalypse.

From Salon

The fire has now been extinguished and firefighters are damping down remaining hotspots.

From BBC

But some tumors fight back to suppress the attacking immune cells, damping the effectiveness of such inhibitors.

From Science Daily

Disinfect the pots, flats and cell packs before planting to avoid problems with damping off and other diseases.

From Seattle Times

With only 72 hours until the Budget, Mr Hunt was firmly in the damping down expectations mode.

From BBC