The word "taper" can be spelled with either one or two p's, making it a bit tricky for those trying to write it accurately. The IPA phonetic transcription for "taper" is /ˈteɪpər/, with the stress on the first syllable. The 't' sound is followed by a long 'a' sound, which is then followed by a 'p' sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a schwa vowel sound before the 'r' sound. Remember to be aware of this spelling when writing the word "taper".
Taper is a verb, often used in the context of reducing or gradually decreasing something in size, amount, or intensity. It can also be used as a noun, referring to a gradual decrease or reduction.
As a verb, taper means to make or become narrower or thinner towards one end. It typically involves gradually reducing the width, thickness, or diameter of an object, such as a candle, tree branch, or pipe. Tapering can be achieved by gently shaping or trimming the end of the object to create a gradual slope or point.
In a broader sense, taper is also used to describe the process of gradually reducing or diminishing something over time. For example, in the field of athletics, an athlete may taper their training regimen closer to a competition to allow for recovery and peak performance. Similarly, in economics, tapering refers to a decrease in the rate at which a central bank buys financial assets, with the aim of gradually reducing the stimulus or support provided to the economy.
As a noun, taper refers to a gradual decrease or diminishing. It can describe a candle that is narrower at one end or a candle's gradual reduction in size due to burning. Taper can also refer to a gradual decrease in medication dosage or the decrease in the thickness or width of an object towards one end.
In summary, taper is a versatile term that signifies the process of gradual decrease, reduction, or narrowing in various contexts. Both as a verb and noun, it conveys the idea of diminishing or reducing something gradually over time.
• A small wax candle; a long wick coated with wax.
• Regularly narrowed towards one end; long and slender.
• To narrow to a point; to become gradually smaller towards the end.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "taper" originated from Old English "tapur", which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*tapuraz". This word is believed to have been borrowed from Latin "papyrus" or Greek "papyros", both of which referred to the papyrus plant used for making paper-like materials in ancient times. Over time, the meaning of "taper" shifted to refer to a slender candle or any object with a similar shape.