WordGarden.iodamage
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈæmɪdʒ/
US
- /ˈdæmədʒ/
Meanings
Noun
harm that reduces the condition, value, or usefulness of something
money that a court orders someone to pay as compensation
Verb
to harm something or make it less useful, healthy, or valuable
Beyond the definition
Damage refers to physical harm caused to something—a broken vase, a dented car, or a scratched painting. But it's not just about objects! You can also do damage to relationships by saying hurtful things, or suffer emotional damage from a difficult life experience. Think of a powerful storm: it might cause extensive flood damage to homes and businesses. Or consider a careless word—it can do irreparable damage to someone's trust. Ultimately, damage implies that something was once whole or functioning properly and is now lessened in value, beauty, or effectiveness.
Damage describes the harm or loss inflicted on something, whether physical, emotional, or material. It is more than just typical wear and tear; damage suggests a disruption of integrity, meaning something has been compromised. You might see "water damage" after a leaky roof, describing the deterioration caused by moisture. A boxer takes physical damage during a fight, resulting in bruises and cuts.
But damage isn't always visible to the eye. A betrayal can inflict emotional damage that lasts for years, while a politician's reputation can suffer irreparable damage from a public scandal. The word functions as both a noun—"the extent of the damage was shocking"—and a verb—"the hail damaged the crops." It usually implies a negative consequence or a reduction in functionality and well-being. Sometimes, "damage control" is necessary, referring to the efforts made to lessen the harmful effects after a mistake or disaster has occurred. Notably, in legal contexts, the word is used in its plural form, "damages," to refer to the money claimed or awarded as compensation for a loss. Whether it is a shattered antique, a wounded heart, or a tarnished reputation, damage signifies a loss of wholeness and a disruption of what once was.
Examples
- 1
Storm damage
The storm caused serious damage to several houses.
- 2
Water damage
There was some water damage on the ceiling after the leak.
- 3
Gradual damage
Even a small leak can do a lot of damage over time.
- 4
Confidence
The rumors did real damage to her confidence.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Skin health
Too much sun can damage your skin.
- 6
Relationships
One careless remark can damage a friendship.
- 7
Damage control
The company started doing damage control after the product recall.
- Phrasedamage control
actions taken to limit the bad effects of a mistake or problem
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- impairment
- wear and tear
- devastation
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- cause damage
- serious damage
- property damage
- irreparable damage
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- damagenounverb
Forms
- damagedpast tenseverbnoun
- damagespluralnounverb
- damaging-ing formverbnoun