make a dent in

M m

Definitions of make a dent in words

noun make a dent in a hollow or depression in a surface, as from a blow. 1
noun make a dent in a noticeable effect, especially of reduction: to leave a dent in one's savings; a dent in one's pride. 1
verb with object make a dent in to make a dent in or on; indent: The impact dented the car's fender. 1
verb with object make a dent in to have the effect of reducing or slightly injuring: The caustic remark dented his ego. 1
verb without object make a dent in to show dents; become indented: Tin dents more easily than steel. 1
verb without object make a dent in to sink in, making a dent: Nails dent into metal. 1

before 1250

One of the 11% oldest English words

1250-1300; Middle English dente, variant of dint

noun

adjective

verb

adverb

pronoun

preposition

conjunction

determiner

exclamation

A common word. It’s meaning is known to most children of preschool age. About 92% of English native speakers know the meaning and use the word.

Most Europeans know this English word. The frequency of it’s usage is somewhere between "mom" and "screwdriver".

This diagram is provided by Google Ngram Viewer