Today let's learn a new word, taper!

[Transcript:

Hi and welcome to Let’s Word Up! Each day we post a word of the day to help you improve your English language skills.

Today’s word of the day is taper.

Taper is a doing word therefore it is a verb.

Taper has two meanings. Firstly it is to diminish or reduce in thickness towards one end. Secondly it is to gradually lessen.

An example of the word taper used as a verb in a sentence would be:

It's designed to taper at one end to give it aerodynamic qualities.

Or, His enthusiasm began to taper once he realised how impossible the task was.

Taper can also be used as a noun, with four meanings. Firstly it is a slender candle. Secondly it is a wick coated with wax, used for conveying a flame. Thirdly it is a gradual narrowing. Lastly it is a gradual or incremental reduction.

An example of taper used as a noun in a sentence would be:

She got a fancy taper so she can read at night.

The table was adorned with a giant taper sitting in the middle.

The taper of the vase gave it an elegant look.

Or, We were falling behind in the competition due to the taper in our practice and preparation.

Synonyms: narrow, attenuate, dwindle, lessen, wick.

Antonyms: thicken, swell, increase, grow, widen.

Thank you for listening, we hope that you found it helpful and interesting. Until next time.]

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