Damn
/dæm/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo condemn something or someone; to declare something as bad or wrong, often expressing anger or frustration.
/dæm/
To condemn or express strong disapproval of.
The critics damned the movie as a waste of time.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're super mad about something, like when your little brother breaks your favorite toy. To *damn* something means you're really unhappy or angry about it.
👶 For kids: To say something is very bad or wrong.
More Examples
The public damned the politician for his corrupt actions.
He damned his luck for missing the opportunity.
How It's Used
"The audience damned the villain's actions."
"In some religions, certain actions may lead to being damned."
To express anger, annoyance, or frustration, often by using the word 'damn' as an expletive or curse.
/dæm/
To curse or damn (someone or something).
Damn the leaky faucet; I can't get any sleep!
💡 Simply: When you're really frustrated or angry, you might say 'damn' – it's like a way to let off steam!
👶 For kids: To say a bad word when you are mad.
More Examples
He damned the cold weather, wishing for summer.
Damn, I forgot to set the alarm!
How It's Used
"He damned the traffic for making him late."
"Damn the weather!"
Used for emphasis, often expressing annoyance or disapproval, or to emphasize the degree or extent of something.
/dæm/
(Informal) Used to express annoyance or disapproval.
This is a damn fine day for a walk.
💡 Simply: When you want to make something sound even more extreme than 'very,' use 'damn'. Like, 'That's a damn good movie' means the movie is really good!
👶 For kids: A way to say something is really, really bad or really, really good (but you probably shouldn't say it!).
More Examples
He's a damn good friend.
That's a damn shame that the event got canceled.
How It's Used
"This is a damn good pizza."
"That was a damn fast car!"
Idioms & expressions
Not give a damn
To not care at all; to be completely indifferent.
"He doesn't give a damn about the rules."
To be damned if you do, and damned if you don't
A situation where any choice made will result in negative consequences or criticism.
"He felt he was damned if he did and damned if he didn't, with the difficult decision he faced."
From Middle English dam(p)nen, from Old French damner (“to condemn”), from Latin damnāre (“to condemn, blame”), from damnum (“loss, damage”).
The word 'damn' has been used for centuries, with earlier usages often related to religious condemnation and cursing.
Memory tip
Imagine a judge hitting a gavel and *damning* a criminal in court.
Word Origin
"To condemn, blame, or cause loss."