put a damper on

phrase

: to make (something) less strong, active, or exciting

His bad mood put a damper on the celebration.

He was putting a bit of a damper on her spirits.

Examples of put a damper on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The film’s sombre tone and subject matter likely put a damper on the Lido crowd’s reaction, but the movie was well received, with the audience rising for a standing ovation, clapping warmly for four minutes. — Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2026

Real problem and put a damper on the entire breakfast experience. — Maria Bamford, Vulture, 31 Aug. 2026

Even in paradise, a few tiny pests can put a damper on an otherwise idyllic vacation. — Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 27 Aug. 2026

Spotting white bugs on your hibiscus, that tropical queen of the patio, can put a damper on your gardening efforts. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Aug. 2026

Rhymes for put a damper on

• arrondissement
• ferrosilicon
• lycopersicon
• mesencephalon
• polysilicon
• stereopticon
• telencephalon
• agamemnon
• automaton
• diencephalon
• panopticon
• phenomenon