dimmer

Multiple Entries:
  dimmer    dim  

Concise Oxford English Dictionary © 2008 Oxford University Press:
dimmer/ˈdɪmə/

▶noun

• 1 (also dimmer switch) a device for varying the brightness of an electric light.

• 2 US a dipped headlight.

Concise Oxford English Dictionary © 2008 Oxford University Press:
dim/dɪm/

▶adjective (dimmer, dimmest)

• 1 (of a light or illuminated object) not shining brightly or clearly.

  ■ made difficult to see by darkness, shade, or distance.

  ■ (of the eyes) not able to see clearly.

• 2 not clearly recalled or formulated in the mind: dim memories.

• 3 informal stupid; unintelligent.

▶verb (dims, dimming, dimmed) make or become dim.

■ N. Amer. dip (a vehicle's headlights).

– phrases
take a dim view of regard with disapproval.

– derivatives
dimly adverb,
dimmable adjective,
dimmish adjective,
dimness noun.

– origin OE dim, dimm, of Gmc origin.