Attenuate

To attenuate means to weaken or reduce the force, effect, or value of something. It can apply to physical properties like light or sound, abstract concepts like arguments or emotions, or even the strength of a disease. The process of attenuation often involves a gradual decrease, a thinning out, or a spreading apart of something, leading to a diminished impact or intensity. It implies a lessening rather than a complete removal or destruction.

Attenuate meaning with examples

• The sound of the train began to attenuate as it moved further away, eventually becoming a faint rumble. The architects designed the building with noise-reducing materials to attenuate street traffic sounds, creating a more peaceful environment for the residents within the complex. The company's marketing campaign was designed to attenuate the negative impact of the product recall, focusing on consumer safety.
• Over time, the artist found that his initial anger began to attenuate. The government has introduced measures to attenuate the effects of the economic downturn, including financial aid packages and incentives for businesses. Sunlight attenuates significantly as it passes through dense clouds, dimming considerably before reaching the Earth's surface, changing the landscape to a shade.
• The scientist took measures to attenuate the influence of external factors on his experiments, ensuring that the results were based on his desired criteria. With each passing year, the memory of the war began to attenuate, becoming less vivid in the minds of those who lived through it. The medical team worked diligently to attenuate the patient's fever, administering medications and monitoring their condition closely.
• When he broke up with her, his affection towards her began to attenuate as time went on, but the pain and sadness stayed for longer. Over exposure to the sun can cause the quality of leather to attenuate which is why it's best kept inside. The lawyers hoped to be able to attenuate the harsh penalties, however, the evidence against the client was overwhelming.