Dampness

/ˈdampnəs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The state of being slightly wet or moist.

The dampness of the air made the day feel colder than it actually was.

A condition or presence of moisture that can occur in various settings.

The dampness in the basement led to the growth of mold and mildew.

The quality of lacking dryness, often used to describe weather or a physical environment.

He disliked the dampness of the coastal weather in the winter.

An unwanted moisture that can affect the quality of materials or comfort in living spaces.

The dampness in the wooden furniture caused it to warp over time.

From Middle English dampen, from Old French damper, from Vulgar Latin *dampare.

damp squib

Something that fails to meet expectations.

dampened spirits

Reduced enthusiasm or cheerfulness.

damp cloth

A cloth that is slightly wet, often used for cleaning.

damp

Slightly wet; moist.

humid

Marked by a high level of moisture in the air.

moisture

A small amount of liquid, especially water, present in a substance or environment.

Feeling down or sad; in a gloomy mood.

She was in a bit of a dampness after hearing the bad news.

A metaphor for a lack of enthusiasm.

The party was such a dampness; no one was dancing!