Damp: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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.