Damage

/ˈdæmɪdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

Physical harm caused to something, resulting in reduced value, usefulness, or normal function.

The storm caused significant damage to the houses in the neighborhood.

Injury or harm to a person or thing.

The car accident resulted in injuries and damage to both vehicles.

Loss or harm to someone's property, especially in a legal context where compensation is sought.

The company was found liable for damages resulting from the faulty product.

verb

To cause physical harm to something, impairing its value or usefulness.

The heavy rains damaged the crops in the field.

To harm or impair the quality, strength, or functioning of something.

The scandal could damage the politician's reputation.

To cause loss or injury to someone, often in a legal sense.

The faulty equipment may damage the company's profits.

Middle English, from Old French 'damage', derived from 'damager' which means to harm.

damages awarded

Compensation granted by a court.

environmental damage

Harm caused to the natural environment.

property damage

Harm inflicted on real estate or personal property.

harm

Physical injury or damage to a person's body.

injury

An act that damages or hurts.

loss

The state of being deprived of something.

Total damage

We took total damage after that party last night.

Damageless

That was a damageless event—no one got hurt.