Meaning & Definition of word "Efface"

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    Efface

    /ɪˈfeɪs/

    verb:

    • 1. To erase a mark or a memory.
      • Example: The rain fell so heavily that it began to efface the chalk drawings on the sidewalk.
    • 2. To make oneself appear insignificant or inconspicuous.
      • Example: She tried to efface herself at the party, choosing to blend into the background rather than draw attention.
    • 3. To wipe out or destroy all traces of something.
      • Example: The new technology promises to efface the need for traditional paper documentation.
    • 4. To remove or obliterate something completely.
      • Example: The scandal was so damaging that it took years to efface the company's reputation.

    Etymology

    From the Latin 'effacere', meaning to cause to disappear.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    efface one's memory:

    To erase or forget something from one's mind.

    efface from existence:

    To make something cease to exist.

    Related Words

    erase:

    To remove marks or writing.

    obliterate:

    To destroy utterly.

    delete:

    To remove or erase a file or data.

    Slang Meanings of efface

    Meaning: To get rid of something or someone.

    Example Sentence: He's planning to efface all traces of his old life.

    Meaning: To erase a mistake.

    Example Sentence: Just efface that last comment; it was a typo.