adj., n., & v.
--adj. slightly wet; moist.
--n.
1. diffused moisture in the air, on a surface, or in a solid, esp. as a cause of inconvenience or danger.
2 dejection; discouragement.
3 FIREDAMP.
--v.tr.
1. make damp; moisten.
2 (often foll. by down) a take the force or vigour out of (damp one's enthusiasm). b make flaccid or spiritless. c make (a fire) burn less strongly by reducing the flow of air to it.
3 reduce or stop the vibration of (esp. the strings of a musical instrument).
4 quieten.
Phrases and idioms:
damp (or damp-proof) course a layer of waterproof material in the wall of a building near the ground, to prevent rising damp. damp off (of a plant) die from a fungus attack in damp conditions. damp squib an unsuccessful attempt to impress etc.
Derivatives:
damply adv. dampness n.
Etymology: ME f. MLG, vapour etc., OHG dampf steam f. WG