Definition

A device used to make something slightly wet or to reduce the intensity of something.

Example

The dampener helped to reduce the noise from the machinery.

Conversation

Did you see that new dampener they installed in the garden?

Yeah, it really helps keep the plants hydrated.

I think having a dampener is great for conserving water, too.

Absolutely! It makes gardening so much easier.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dampener → It is formed from "dampen" (from Middle English *dampnen*, meaning to make damp or wet) and the suffix "-er" (meaning a person or thing that performs an action). A dampener is something that makes something damp or wet, or it can refer to a person or thing that reduces enthusiasm or intensity.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'makes damp' ('dampen') and the '-er' indicates it is a thing that performs that action. A dampener is something that makes things damp or less intense.

Visually Confused Words