damage
damage Lexical Profile
damage Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Physical harm caused to an object, structure, or body in such a way as to impair its value, usefulness, or normal function.
"The severe hailstorm caused extensive damage to the roofs of dozens of homes in the neighborhood."
Detrimental effects or injury to someone's reputation, emotional well-being, or progress.
"The public scandal did lasting damage to the company's credibility among consumers."
A sum of money claimed or awarded in court as compensation for a financial loss or legal injury (used in the plural 'damages').
"The jury awarded the plaintiff two million dollars in punitive damages for breach of contract."
• verb
To inflict physical harm on something so as to impair its value, usefulness, or normal function.
"Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can damage the delicate pigments in antique paintings."
To have a detrimental or negative effect on someone's reputation, career, or prospects.
"Failing to meet the project deadline could seriously damage our standing with the client."
Word Nuance & Usage
As a noun referring to physical harm, 'damage' is uncountable (e.g., 'the storm caused severe damage'); the plural form 'damages' is reserved for legal contexts meaning financial compensation awarded for a loss or injury.
• Rhymes for damage
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 14th century from Old French 'damage' (Modern French 'dommage'), which derives from Latin 'damnum' meaning 'loss, hurt, or financial penalty'.