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Dampener: meaning, definitions and examples

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dampener

 

[ ˈdæmpənər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

engineering

A device or material that reduces the magnitude of vibrations, sound, or shocks.

Synonyms

buffer, muffler, silencer

Examples of usage

  • The dampener on the machine helps to reduce noise levels during operation.
  • The car's dampener absorbs the impact of bumps on the road.
Context #2 | Noun

general

Something that lessens the intensity or force of something else.

Synonyms

mitigator, moderator, reducer

Examples of usage

  • Her calm demeanor acted as a dampener on the escalating argument.
  • The negative feedback served as a dampener on his enthusiasm for the project.

Etymology

The word 'dampener' originated from the verb 'dampen,' which has been in use since the 16th century. The term 'dampen' initially meant to make something slightly wet or moist. Over time, its meaning evolved to also include the idea of reducing the intensity or impact of something. The noun form 'dampener' emerged later to refer to a device or material that dampens vibrations or sound. Today, 'dampener' is commonly used in engineering and general contexts to describe things that reduce the magnitude or force of various phenomena.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,561, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.