Dampened: meaning, definitions and examples

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dampened

 

[ ˈdæmpənd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

reduced intensity

The term 'dampened' refers to the action of making something less intense, vivid, or strong. It is often used to describe emotions, sounds, or physical sensations that have been subdued or softened. For instance, a lively conversation can be dampened by unexpected news. In a physical context, dampened can also apply to reducing the vibrations or movements of an object, such as dampening the sound of a drum. This word is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts to convey a reduction in impact or enthusiasm.

Synonyms

lessened, soothed, subdued, weakened

Examples of usage

  • The announcement dampened everyone's spirits.
  • She dampened her excitement after hearing the bad news.
  • Rain dampened the festivities outside.
  • The foam dampened the sound of the falling objects.

Translations

Translations of the word "dampened" in other languages:

🇵🇹 amortecido

🇮🇳 कमज़ोर किया हुआ

🇩🇪 gedämpft

🇮🇩 diredakan

🇺🇦 згаслий

🇵🇱 stłumiony

🇯🇵 抑えられた

🇫🇷 apaisé

🇪🇸 atenuado

🇹🇷 sönmüş

🇰🇷 완화된

🇸🇦 مخفف

🇨🇿 utlumený

🇸🇰 utlmený

🇨🇳 减弱的

🇸🇮 utrnjen

🇮🇸 dempun

🇰🇿 жұмсартылған

🇬🇪 დამშვიდებული

🇦🇿 sakitləşdirilmiş

🇲🇽 amortiguado

Etymology

The word 'dampened' originated from the Middle English 'dampen', which dates back to the 14th century. Its roots can be traced to the Old English 'dampian', meaning 'to make damp or moist'. The term has undergone variations in spelling and pronunciation over the centuries. Initially associated with the physical state of moisture, the meaning of 'dampened' expanded to include metaphorical uses, particularly in the context of emotions and atmospheres. By the 19th century, it became common to use 'dampened' in discussions about feelings, moods, and enthusiasm, leading to its current broad application in both literal and figurative scenarios.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,268, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.