der Dämpfer
Translation
setback, damper, blow, steamer
Examples
Die Nachricht war ein Dämpfer für unsere Pläne.
The news was a setback for our plans.
Ich koche das Gemüse im Dämpfer.
I cook the vegetables in the steamer.
Der Trompeter benutzte einen Dämpfer.
The trumpeter used a mute.
Grammar Patterns
to put a damper on ((sth.)) The criticism put a damper on his hopes.
to suffer/receive a setback The project received a setback.
Similar Words
Rückschlag (setback), Enttäuschung (disappointment)
Etymology
Derived from the verb 'dämpfen', which means to steam, dampen, or mute. The noun signifies the object or event causing this effect.
Memory Tips
A 'Dämpfer' (setback) 'dampens' your spirits. The word is also connected to 'Dampf' (steam), which helps remember its meaning as 'steamer'.