Damp

/damp/

Meaning & Definition

noun
Moisture; a small amount of water.
There was a damp in the basement from the leaking pipe.
verb
To make something slightly wet.
She dampened the cloth before wiping the table.
To reduce the intensity of; diminish.
The teacher tried to damp the students' excitement.
adjective
Slightly wet; humid.
The grass was still damp from the morning dew.
Not dry; moist.
The air felt damp after the rain.

Etymology

Middle English damp, from Old French damper, of uncertain origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

damp squib
Something that fails to meet expectations.
dampened enthusiasm
Decreased excitement or interest.

Related Words

moist
Slightly wet or damp.
humid
Marked by a relatively high level of water vapor in the atmosphere.
soggy
Heavily soaked or saturated with liquid.

Slang Meanings

Feeling down or uninspired.
I'm feeling a bit damp today, just not in the mood.
A situation that is disappointing or lacks excitement.
That party was so damp, we left early.