damp
UK: dæmp | US: dæmp
adj. slightly wet or moist
n. moisture in the air or on a surface
vt. to make something slightly wet; to reduce the intensity of something (e.g., sound, enthusiasm)
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The word "damp" originates from Middle Low German damp (vapor) or Middle Dutch damp (steam, mist), likely influenced by Old English dimp (dark, gloomy). Over time, it evolved to describe moisture or humidity in the air, later extending to the verb form meaning "to moisten" or "to stifle." Its Germanic roots reflect a connection to atmospheric conditions, with a semantic shift from "vapor" to "unpleasant wetness."
The damp weather made the walls feel cold.
She used a cloth to damp the dust before sweeping.
His enthusiasm was damped by the negative feedback.
The basement smelled musty and damp.
A damp patch appeared on the ceiling after the rain.