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Definition of damaging

damaging

/ˈdæm.ɪ.dʒɪŋ/
dam · ag · ing
Adverb:damagingly
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damaging Lexical Profile

damaging Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Causing physical harm, structural injury, or functional impairment to something.

Example

"Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays has a damaging effect on human skin."

2

Having a severe negative impact on someone's reputation, legal standing, career, or prospects.

Example

"The audit uncovered several damaging revelations about the company's financial practices."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

damage
damager
damages
damaging
damagingly
damascus
damask rose

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the verb 'damage', which entered Middle English via Old French 'damage' (loss or harm), ultimately derived from Latin 'damnum' meaning loss, injury, or penalty.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Damaging. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/damaging
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