Taper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฏ๏ธ
taper
[หteษชpษr ]
Definitions
tool
A slender wax candle
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| taper |
Used when describing a gradual narrowing or reduction in thickness, width, or intensity, commonly in physical objects or patterns.
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| candle |
Used to refer to an object made of wax with a wick in the middle that is burned to give light, typically found in settings where artificial light is desired for ambiance or emergency.
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Examples of usage
- She lit a taper to illuminate the room
- The taper burned slowly
shape
A gradual decrease or narrowing
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| taper |
Use this word when describing a gradual, smooth reduction in size, amount, or intensity. It is often used in contexts like design, manufacturing, or exercise.
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| decrease |
This is a general term for any reduction in number, amount, or size. It can apply to various contexts like statistics, economics, or everyday situations.
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| narrowing |
This word is best used to describe the reduction of width or scope, such as in physical spaces or when detailing a focus or range of options.
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Examples of usage
- The road began to taper as it reached the mountain
- The taper of the dress accentuated her figure
shape
To become gradually thinner or smaller towards one end
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| taper |
This word is often used when describing something that gradually becomes thinner or smaller towards one end. It is commonly used in manufacturing, design, and measurements.
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| narrow |
This word is used when describing something that is not wide or has limited width. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, such as referring to physical spaces or viewpoints.
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| shrink |
This word is used when something becomes smaller in size, especially due to external factors like heat or moisture. It can also refer to a reduction in quantity or number.
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Examples of usage
- The tower tapers towards the top
- His fingers tapered elegantly
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art and Design
- In woodworking, a taper is essential in creating a sleek design by gradually reducing the width of a piece.
- Fashion designers often utilize tapering in clothing to enhance a fit, creating a more flattering silhouette.
- In sculpture, tapering techniques create a sense of movement or flow in the form.
Science
- In physics, tapering can refer to the design of structures, like bridges, where they are narrowed to save materials without sacrificing strength.
- Aerodynamics often employs tapering to improve the efficiency of wings and reduce drag.
- In agriculture, tapering can be observed in plant growth, where leaves and branches naturally narrow towards the tip.
Sports
- In running, tapering is a critical phase before a big race, where athletes reduce their training intensity to enhance performance.
- Bicycles often feature tapered tubes for better strength-to-weight ratios enhancing speed.
- Certain sports utilize tapering in training regimens to prevent injuries and maximize capabilities during competitions.
Origin of 'taper'
Main points about word origin
- The word has roots in Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'taper', meaning 'to decrease or lessen'.
- It originally referred to the act of making something slimmer, often through cutting or shaping.
- The term has evolved over time, expanding to various contexts, including arts and crafts.
The word 'taper' originated from the Old English word 'tapur' which meant a wax candle. Over time, it evolved to also refer to a gradual decrease or narrowing. The verb form of 'taper' developed from the noun, reflecting the idea of something becoming thinner towards one end. The multiple meanings of 'taper' make it a versatile word in English language.
See also: tapestry.