Dampen

/ˈdæmpən/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To make something less strong or intense.

The rain did little to dampen our spirits as we continued the festival under the tents.

To reduce the energy or enthusiasm of someone or something.

Her harsh criticism dampened his enthusiasm for the project.

To make something slightly wet.

Please dampen the sponge before using it to clean the surface.

Middle English dampen, from dam + –pen, from the Old English dāmpian.

dampen someone's spirits

To make someone feel sad or less enthusiastic.

dampen the mood

To make the atmosphere less cheerful.

dampen enthusiasm

To reduce someone's excitement or eagerness.

damp

Slightly wet or moist.

moisten

To make slightly wet.

deaden

To make something less intense.

To soften a situation.

He tried to dampen the argument with a joke.

To lower the excitement.

Don't dampen the fun; let's keep the party going!