1. to become gradually narrower toward one end
2. to decrease gradually in amount, intensity, or degree

1. a thin candle, especially one used for lighting other candles
2. a gradual decrease in thickness, width, or intensity

Examples

• The pencil tapers to a sharp point.
• Her enthusiasm began to taper after the first week.
• The doctor advised him to taper his medication gradually.
• She lit the birthday candles with a long taper.
• The table leg has a gentle taper from top to bottom.
• The rain tapered off by evening.
• The tower shows a dramatic taper toward its peak.