damp

Everyday

1. Damp means a little wet, not fully wet. tree →
2. Damp is wetness in the air or in the walls of a house, which can make mould grow. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life, damp clothes need to dry before you wear them; a damp cloth is good for wiping. In science, seeds need damp soil to sprout, and woodlice and worms like damp places. In health, damp, mouldy homes can make people cough. In weather, a damp day is grey and drizzly. Phrases: a damp cloth, damp patch, damp weather, damp squib.

Examples

• My socks are still damp. tree →
• Wipe the table with a damp cloth. tree →
• Seeds grow in damp soil. tree →
• Woodlice live in damp, dark places. tree →
• There is a damp patch on the ceiling. tree →
• It was a cold, damp morning. tree →
• Hang your damp towel up to dry. tree →
• Mould grows on damp walls. tree →
• A rose-bush on the wall like that causes damp. tree →

Note

Damp = slightly wet; soaking = very wet; moist is similar but used for food (a moist cake). Do not dry your hands on a damp towel before touching plugs; electricity and water are dangerous together.