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Taper - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Taper means to gradually narrow or decrease in thickness, size, or intensity. It can refer to a candle's shape, reducing exercise intensity, or fading out sound in music.

taper

/ˈteɪpər/ /ˈteɪpə/

Definition:

To gradually decrease in thickness or width, or to reduce something slowly over time.

Synonyms:

narrow, diminish, thin, lessen

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

widen, expand

Common Collocations:

taper off, taper down, taper edge, candle taper

Derivatives:

tapered, tapering

Usage Tips:

Use "taper" to describe gradual narrowing or reduction, often in physical objects or processes like exercise routines.

Common Phrases:

taper off, candle taper, taper down

Etymology:

From Old English "tapur," meaning a small candle; later influenced by Latin "taper," meaning wax light.

Examples:

  • 1. She trimmed the fabric to taper at the ends.
  • 2. The road begins to taper as it climbs the hill.
  • 3. He decided to taper his workouts before the race.
  • 4. The candle had a delicate taper shape.

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