dent
UK[dɛnt]US[dɛnt]
n
A small hollow mark in the surface of something, made by pressure or by being hit.
v
To make a dent in something.
Etymology
The word 'dent' has a straightforward lineage tracing back to the physical act of striking. It originates from the Old English 'dynt', a term for a blow or stroke, which is of Proto-Germanic origin. This concrete meaning evolved naturally to denote the hollow depression or mark left by such a forceful impact. Over time, its usage expanded metaphorically, allowing it to describe any noticeable reduction or negative effect, as in "making a dent in a problem," while retaining its core association with a physical indentation.
Analysis
This word is a simplex. It is a loanword from Middle English 'dent', meaning a blow or the mark left by one, which itself came from Old English 'dynt' (a blow, stroke, bruise). The Old English term is of Germanic origin, related to Old Norse 'dyntr'.
Examples
The hailstorm left several small dents in the roof of the car.
Be careful not to dent the metal door when you move the furniture.
The new policy made a significant dent in the company's operating costs.