Tapering

/ˈteɪpərɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the action of tapering; the state of being tapered.

The tapering of the pencil made it easier to draw fine details.

a tapering shape or form.

The architect designed the building with a tapering roof to allow for better drainage.

verb

present participle of taper; to gradually decrease in thickness or width.

The candle was tapering down as it burned through the night.

to make or become less intense or potent.

The tapering sound of the sirens signaled that the emergency was over.

to reduce something gradually.

The doctor advised tapering off the medication to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Middle English: from the verb taper, which is of uncertain origin.

tapering off:

Gradually reducing something, such as medication or activity.

tapering period:

The time during which a reduction in dose or activity occurs.

tapering pain:

Pain that gradually decreases in intensity.

To cut back on something gradually, often related to spending or habits.

I've been tapering my Netflix binge-watching since I started working.

To ease off or slow down in a casual context.

After exams, I decided to taper my study sessions.