dent

/dɛnt/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: dents · denting · dented

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A shallow deformation in the surface of an object, produced by an impact.

Noun

Examples

The crash produced a dent in the left side of the car.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A minor effect made upon something.

Noun

Examples

to make a dent

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To impact something, producing a dent.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To develop a dent or dents.

Verb

Examples

Copper is soft and dents easily.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “dent” mean?

A shallow deformation in the surface of an object, produced by an impact.

Is “dent” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.