Damp Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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damp

[dæmp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

weather

Slightly wet or moist, often in a way that is unpleasant.

Synonyms

humid, moist, wet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
damp

Use 'damp' when describing something that is slightly wet, often in an uncomfortable or undesirable way.

  • The basement is damp after the rain
  • The clothes are still damp; they need more time to dry
moist

Use 'moist' when referring to something that is slightly wet in a positive or neutral way, often in the context of food or skin.

  • The cake is very moist and delicious
  • Apply the lotion to keep your skin moist
wet

Use 'wet' when something is completely covered or saturated with water or another liquid.

  • My shoes are wet from walking in the rain
  • Be careful; the floor is wet and slippery
humid

Use 'humid' when talking about weather or air that has a high amount of moisture, making it feel warm and sticky.

  • The weather forecast says it will be hot and humid today
  • It's hard to sleep when it's so humid outside

Examples of usage

  • The ground was damp after the rain.
  • Her clothes felt damp from being outside in the fog.
  • The basement had a damp, musty smell.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A feeling of dejection or discouragement.

Synonyms

dejection, despair, discouragement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
damp

Used to describe something that is slightly wet, usually unpleasantly.

  • The ground outside was still damp after the rain.
  • Her clothes felt damp after walking in the fog.

Examples of usage

  • She couldn't shake off the damp that had settled over her since the bad news.
  • He was in a damp of despair after losing the competition.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'damp'

The word 'damp' originated from the Middle English word 'dampen', which means to suffocate or extinguish. Over time, its meaning evolved to refer to moisture or humidity. The term has been used in various contexts to describe wetness or discouragement.


See also: dampen, dampness.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,633 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.