dampener
nounUK /ˈdæmpənə/
US /ˈdæmpənər/
A thing that makes something less strong or less happy.
The rain put a dampener on our picnic plans.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A device that reduces vibration or noise, such as in a piano or machine.
The piano's dampener stops the strings from ringing too long.
3. A small pad or valve that controls the flow of air or sound.
He fitted a dampener to the chimney to slow the smoke.
4. A person or thing that discourages or depresses spirits.
Her gloomy remarks were a real dampener on the party.