Damp

Damp describes a slight wetness or moisture, often implying a lack of complete dryness. It can refer to the condition of something being slightly wet, a feeling in the air, or a subtle influence that diminishes or depresses. The degree of dampness varies, ranging from a barely perceptible moisture to a more noticeable wetness. It's often associated with discomfort, coldness, or a feeling of gloom. Dampness can be caused by humidity, leaks, or the presence of water in the environment. It's a common term used to describe conditions both indoors and outdoors, affecting surfaces, the air, or even one's mood.

Damp meaning with examples

• The old basement held a persistent damp smell, clinging to everything stored within the stone walls. Boxes of old books felt cold and slightly damp to the touch, affected by the moisture. Despite attempts at ventilation, the musty dampness remained, a testament to poor insulation and infrequent use. The damp environment was also not great for long-term storage of family heirlooms.
• After the rain, the forest floor was damp, making the air feel heavy and cool, and the ground feel unstable to walk on. The leaves underfoot crunched softly as the dampness permeated the air, intensifying the earthy scents. Hiking boots left faint impressions in the damp soil. Mist and dampness made the visibility limited as we ventured into the dense woodland.
• He felt a damp chill in the air as the sun set and the temperature dropped quickly, making him want to head inside. The dampness in the evening air hinted at the possibility of more rain to come overnight. The wetness caused him to shiver slightly as his shirt clung to his body. He reached into his bag for an extra layer of clothing to keep him warm.
• The damp towel, left discarded on the bathroom floor, spread an unpleasant, musty odor throughout the room, and added to the morning routine. The damp cloth left a ring on the wooden table, evidence of where the cup had been. She wrung out the damp sponge, aiming to wipe the surface clean again, but the result was less effective than before.
• A subtle dampening effect settled over the festive mood when the news of the setback arrived, changing the mood quickly. The damp influence cast a shadow over the celebration's early stages. A feeling of impending rain created a sense of unease. The initial excitement was replaced with concern as the news sunk in.