damages
damages Lexical Profile
damages Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A sum of money claimed or awarded in compensation for a loss or an injury in a legal dispute.
"The jury awarded the plaintiff two million dollars in punitive damages."
Physical harm caused to something in such a way as to impair its value, usefulness, or normal function (plural of damage).
"The insurance adjuster inspected the property to estimate the storm damages."
• verb
To inflict physical harm on something so as to impair its value, usefulness, or normal function (third-person singular present of damage).
"Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight damages the delicate pigments in old paintings."
To have a detrimental effect on a person's reputation, health, or success (third-person singular present of damage).
"Spreading unverified rumors damages trust within the organization."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse the uncountable noun 'damage' (physical harm or injury) with the plural noun 'damages' (financial compensation awarded by a court for a loss or injury).
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from Old French 'damage', meaning loss or detriment, ultimately from Latin 'damnum' (loss, hurt, or penalty).