damper

noun

ˈdam-pər How to pronounce damper (audio)
Definition of dampernext
as in mute
a device on a musical instrument that deadens or softens its tone the pianist used the damper pedal on the piano for the quiet passages

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of damper If the damper cannot be closed, people should consider using a fan. — Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 17 July 2026 Julie Heckman says high humidity can literally put a damper on fireworks shows. — Bill Chappell, NPR, 28 June 2026 But the fact that Apple was forced to raise prices—despite its famous supply chain prowess and its massive purchasing power, not to mention the potential damper on demand—sent a shockwave through the global markets. — Alexei Oreskovic, Fortune, 28 June 2026 Spain's 1-0 win on Friday night perhaps put a damper on a couple of teams' World Cup plans. — Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for damper
Recent Examples of Synonyms for damper
mute
Noun
  • Almost a decade ago, Jon Bernthal and Tom Holland starred in a little movie called Pilgrimage, in which the former is a mute and the latter is his sole companion.
    — Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 23 July 2026
  • The ballads, though, are where the trumpeter puts on his Harmon mute and things turn magical.
    — Natalie Weiner, Pitchfork, 19 June 2026
Definition of mute

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dampens
damper
dampers
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Cite this Entry

“Damper.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/damper. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on damper

Nglish: Translation of damper for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about damper

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