Meaning & use
damping
Last updated
The gradual reduction of oscillation, vibration, or amplitude in a physical system, often through resistance or friction.
See it in a sentence
The engineers added extra damping to reduce vibration in the bridge.
Shock absorbers provide damping that smooths out a car's ride.
A note on using this word
A key term in physics and engineering, describing how energy is dissipated from a vibrating or oscillating system over time.
Words with a similar meaning
dampeningattenuation
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Words with an opposite meaning
Another way to use it
2. noun
The act of moistening something slightly.
A light damping of the fabric made it easier to iron.
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