Vibration Theory and Terminology: Damping
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Safari and 2003 Chevrolet Astro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Damping is the ability of an object or material to dissipate or absorb vibration. The automotive shock absorber is a good example. The function of the shock absorber is to absorb or dampen the oscillations of the suspension system.