Word
dent
Phoneticsdent
US/ˈdɛnt/
UK/dˈɛnt/
Definitions
01a physical hollow
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun
n. a small hollow place in the surface of something hard, usually caused by being hit.
n. a shallow deformation or indentation in a surface, typically resulting from a physical impact.
“There was a small dent in the car door where a shopping cart had hit it.”
“The hail storm was severe enough to leave several noticeable dents in the aluminium siding of the warehouse.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
02a reduction or negative effect
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Informal
n. a reduction in the amount of something, or a negative effect on your progress or feelings.
n. a significant but usually partial reduction in amount, progress, or confidence, often caused by an external factor.
“The expensive repair bill made a big dent in my savings this month.”
“Despite the aggressive marketing campaign, the new competitor failed to make a significant dent in the company's market share.”
03to damage or weaken
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. to make something like pride or confidence less strong.
v. to diminish or weaken something abstract, such as pride, reputation, or confidence.
“Failing the driving test really dented his confidence for a few weeks.”
“The scandal did not just hurt the politician's popularity; it permanently dented his reputation among younger voters.”
Antonyms
Usage
Commonly used with the verb 'make' in both literal and figurative contexts.
Real-World Examples
“In addition, the laptop wouldn’t go to sleep when its lid was closed, which put a pretty good dent in the battery life.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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