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.

This struggling single mother confronted head-on a lack of opportunities that should have deadened all hope, but instead fueled her determination to thrive and to prosper.

From New York Times • Apr. 8, 2011

For a while the shock of this triumph appears to have deadened all other considerations, but only for a while.

From South America by Koebel, W. H. (William Henry)

As with lunar caustic, you have deadened the spiritual nerves by the help of which one believes simply and without question, so that even if I would believe I have lost the power.

From Without Dogma by Sienkiewicz, Henryk

The light carpet of snow would not have deadened the newcomer’s approach to David’s ears, were it not that he was so absorbed in the words, the looks, the merest gestures of his companion.

From The Late Tenant by Tracy, Louis

They walked with exaggerated care; though the roar of the storm would have deadened the sound of a cavalry charge.

From Further Adventures of Lad by Terhune, Albert Payson