wane
Wane (verb) means to gradually become weaker, smaller, or less intense. Example: “His enthusiasm for the project began to wane after a few months.”
How to use wane
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo gradually shrink, fade, or lose strength — classically used for the moon, but also for interest, power, or influence.
Often paired with "wax" in the phrase "wax and wane" (grow then shrink) — don't use "wane" to mean growing.
Word forms
waned past tense, wanes plural, wanes plural, wanes plural, wanes singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His enthusiasm for the project began to _____ after a few months.
Etymology
From Old English wana, meaning "lack" or "deficiency" — the same ancient root underlies "want" and "wan," all connected to the idea of something falling short or emptying out.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for wane
See all rhymes for wane →Frequently asked questions
What does “wane” mean?
The word “wane” means to gradually become weaker, smaller, or less intense. In plain terms, to gradually shrink, fade, or lose strength — classically used for the moon, but also for interest, power, or influence.
How do you pronounce “wane”?
“Wane” is pronounced wayn (/weɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “wane” in a sentence?
Here is “wane” used in a sentence: “His enthusiasm for the project began to wane after a few months.”
What is the opposite of “wane”?
The opposite of “wane” — its antonyms — is wax.
What part of speech is “wane”?
Depending on how it is used, “wane” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “wane” come from?
The word “wane” comes from Old English. From Old English wana, meaning "lack" or "deficiency" — the same ancient root underlies "want" and "wan," all connected to the idea of something falling short or emptying out.
How many meanings does “wane” have?
“Wane” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to gradually become weaker, smaller, or less intense.
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