First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1taper
noun ta·per \ˈtā-pər\
Definition of TAPER
1
a : a slender candle b : a long waxed wick used especially for lighting candles, lamps, pipes, or fires c : a feeble light
2
a : a tapering form or figure b : gradual diminution of thickness, diameter, or width in an elongated object c : a gradual decrease
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Origin of TAPER
Middle English, from Old English tapor candle, wick, perhaps modification of Latin papyrus papyrus
2taper
adjective
Definition of TAPER
1
: progressively narrowed toward one end
2
: furnished with or adjusted to a scale : graduated <taper freight rates>
First Known Use of TAPER
15th century
3taper
verb
: to become gradually smaller toward one end
ta·peredta·per·ing \ˈtā-p(ə-)riŋ\
Full Definition of TAPER
intransitive verb
1
: to become progressively smaller toward one end
2
: to diminish gradually
transitive verb
: to cause to taper
See taper defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of TAPER
1610
Related to TAPER
- Synonyms
- abate, decline, de-escalate, die (away or down or out), diminish, drain (away), drop (off), dwindle, ease, ebb, fall, fall away, lessen, let up, lower, moderate, pall, phase down, ratchet (down) also rachet (down), recede, relent, remit, shrink, subside, decrease, taper off, wane
4taper
noun tap·er \ˈtā-pər\
Definition of TAPER
: one that applies or dispenses tape
Origin of TAPER
1tape
First Known Use: circa 1920
TAPER Defined for Kids
1taper
noun ta·per \ˈtā-pər\
Definition of TAPER for Kids
1
: a slender candle
2
: a gradual lessening in thickness or width in a long object
2taper
verb
ta·peredta·per·ing
Definition of TAPER for Kids
1
: to make or become gradually smaller toward one end <The leaves taper to a point.>
2
: to grow gradually less and less <The rain tapered off.>
Learn More About TAPER
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