dampen
verb (used with object)
have been dampening
-
present perfect progressiveof dampen.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
But Russian officials have been dampening expectations of a deal.
From BBC ● Jan. 31, 2026
Higher loan rates have been dampening auto sales, particularly in the used-car market, because loans are more expensive and prices remain high, experts said.
From New York Times ● Jun. 14, 2023
Showers have been dampening parts of California since Sunday, with 3 to 4 inches falling in the Santa Barbara County mountains.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 20, 2022
Showers have been dampening parts of San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties since Sunday.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 19, 2022
Since delicate negotiations with unions over a fresh round of restructuring might not be completed before November, company officials have been dampening hopes that Thursday's board meeting might provide a catalyst for the stock.
From Reuters ● Jun. 26, 2012
