Words / B2

DAMP-uh-n/ˈdæmpən/

To dampen here is to make a feeling, sound, or activity less strong: dampen enthusiasm; dampen demand. Dampen can also mean make slightly wet; this entry is the weaker-feeling sense. Reduce is broader; mute is a sound twin. Dampen demand in the economics case still needs the % fall. Mix-up: dampen vs damper; damn; do not write dampen for a cloth-wetting step unless the method names water.

Meaning

To make a feeling, sound, or activity less strong (dampen enthusiasm).

Examples

• “Dampen demand in the economics case still needs the % fall, not a wet-cloth caption.”
• “Bad weather dampened turnout, which is the weaken sense — still quote the % if given.”

Good to know

dampen enthusiasm / demand / noise. Close: reduce / mute. Wet sense: make slightly damp. Trap: damper / a soaking. Economics, PE, and news. Make a feeling or activity weaker — quote the %.

Near in meaning

lessen, mute, reduce

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