verb
Uncommon
taper
TAY-puh
Taper (verb) means to become gradually narrower toward one end. Example: “The candle tapers to a fine point at the top.”
verb
1
To become gradually narrower toward one end.
"The candle tapers to a fine point at the top."
2
To decrease or reduce gradually.
"Her medication dose will taper off over the next few weeks."
"The central bank began to taper its bond-buying program."
How to use taper
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo narrow gradually, or to gradually reduce something like a dose, habit, or policy.
Common pairings
taper off
taper a dose
tapered trousers
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Word forms
- Plural
- tapers
- Third person singular
- tapers
- Past tense
- tapered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The candle _____ to a fine point at the top.
Etymology
From Old English tapor, an early word for a candle or wick, whose exact origin remains uncertain, though some link it to Latin papyrus.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for taper
See all rhymes for taper →Frequently asked questions
What does “taper” mean?
The word “taper” means to become gradually narrower toward one end. In plain terms, to narrow gradually, or to gradually reduce something like a dose, habit, or policy.
How do you pronounce “taper”?
“Taper” is pronounced TAY-puh (/ˈteɪpɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “taper” in a sentence?
Here is “taper” used in a sentence: “The candle tapers to a fine point at the top.”
What is another word for “taper”?
Words with a similar meaning to “taper” include narrow.
What part of speech is “taper”?
“Taper” is a verb.
Where does the word “taper” come from?
The word “taper” comes from Latin. From Old English tapor, an early word for a candle or wick, whose exact origin remains uncertain, though some link it to Latin papyrus.
Is “taper” a common word?
“Taper” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “taper” have?
“Taper” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to become gradually narrower toward one end.
