damage control

noun

: measures taken to offset or minimize damage to reputation, credibility, or public image caused by a controversial act, remark, or revelation

Examples of damage control in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
L3Harris claimed that its Integrated Platform Management Systems (IPMS) provides integrated monitoring and control of ship propulsion, electrical functions, auxiliaries and damage control machinery and systems. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 9 May 2026 President Vladimir Putin has looked to do damage control in the last week, but has largely stayed out of the debate over the unpopular bans. Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, semafor.com, 30 Apr. 2026 At this point, a settlement would look less like vindication than damage control. Jon Duffy, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 Apr. 2026 While Lindsay and Josh spiral down the dark abscesses of their own selfishness, the chairwoman embarks on her own damage control. Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for damage control

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of damage control was in 1933

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Damage control.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/damage%20control. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster