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Petered: meaning, definitions and examples

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petered

 

[ ˈpiːtərd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

decrease gradually

The term 'petered' comes from the verb 'to peter out,' which is used to describe something that diminishes gradually until it stops or becomes negligible. This could refer to energy levels, resources, or situations where interest or excitement wanes over time. It often implies a sense of decline or fading away, suggesting that something that was once abundant or vigorous has decreased significantly. The term can also carry a connotation of disappointment as the decline may feel abrupt despite the gradual nature of the process.

Synonyms

diminish, dwindle, fade, taper off, weaken

Examples of usage

  • The crowd petered out after the concert ended.
  • His enthusiasm for the project gradually petered out.
  • The snowfall petered out by the afternoon.

Translations

Translations of the word "petered" in other languages:

🇵🇹 petered

🇮🇳 petered

🇩🇪 petered

🇮🇩 petered

🇺🇦 petered

🇵🇱 petered

🇯🇵 petered

🇫🇷 petered

🇪🇸 petered

🇹🇷 petered

🇰🇷 petered

🇸🇦 petered

🇨🇿 petered

🇸🇰 petered

🇨🇳 petered

🇸🇮 petered

🇮🇸 petered

🇰🇿 petered

🇬🇪 petered

🇦🇿 petered

🇲🇽 petered

Etymology

The phrase 'to peter out' is believed to have originated in the United States during the late 19th century. Its etymology is somewhat unclear, but it is often thought to be named after the character 'Little Peter,' which was used in a children's rhyme describing a boy who gradually loses his energy and enthusiasm. This expression has since evolved to describe a variety of scenarios in which something diminishes or fades gradually. The verb 'to peter out' gained popularity particularly during the 20th century and has been widely accepted in informal English usage. Over time, it has found its way into various contexts, both literal and metaphorical, demonstrating the flexibility and adaptive nature of language.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,480 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.