Definitions

1. verb

to make (something) less active or less able to function

“The cold weather began to deaden the plants in the garden.”

2. verb

to reduce the intensity or effect of (something)

“The music began to deaden as the audience started to leave the concert hall.”

3. verb

to make (a sound) less loud or less clear

“The noise of the traffic began to deaden as I walked further away from the road.”

4. noun

the act of making (something) less active or less able to function

“The deadening effect of the cold weather on the plants was noticeable.”