Simple Explanation

Damping is how quickly a sound or vibration dies out over time.

Concise Technical Definition

The attenuation of a resonant frequency over time; in audio systems, this often refers to how excess energy from vibrations is absorbed or reduced.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Like putting your hand on a ringing bell to make it stop sooner — damping makes things settle down faster.

Industry Usage Summary

Used in acoustics, speaker design, and room treatment to control unwanted resonances, echoes, or prolonged sound decay by absorbing energy with materials or electronic techniques.

Engineering Shortcut

Describes how energy is dissipated in a system; often related to cabinet stuffing in speakers or room treatments like panels and bass traps in acoustic spaces.

Full Technical Explanation

Damping refers to the reduction of amplitude of resonant frequencies over time, typically caused by energy dissipation through friction or absorption. In acoustics, this applies to how surfaces or materials in a room absorb sound reflections. In loudspeaker design, damping is implemented through cabinet structure, internal bracing, and materials like foam or fiberfill to minimize internal resonances. Proper damping leads to tighter bass, reduced ringing, and clearer sound reproduction.