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taper Synonyms

Another word for taper

Choosing another word for taper depends on context, so the 21 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 5 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To become or cause to become gradually narrower or thinner toward one end.

Usage Example

"The stone spire tapers gracefully toward a bronze weathervane at the top."

Strongest
narrow
Strong
attenuate
thin

• verb (Context 2)

To diminish or reduce gradually in amount, degree, or intensity (often followed by 'off').

Usage Example

"The heavy rain finally began to taper off off by late afternoon."

Strongest
taper off
diminish
Strong
dwindle
lessen
decrease
subside
wane
wind down
abate
peter out

• noun (Context 3)

A gradual narrowing or diminution of thickness, width, or diameter in an elongated object.

Usage Example

"The furniture maker shaped the table legs with a subtle narrowing toward the floor."

Strongest
narrowing
Strong
attenuation

• noun (Context 4)

A gradual reduction in the amount, intensity, or frequency of something, such as athletic training before a race, a medication dosage, or economic stimulus.

Usage Example

"The marathon coach scheduled a two-week reduction so the runners would be fully rested on race day."

Strong
reduction
phase-out
decrease
cutback

• noun (Context 5)

A very slender candle, or a long waxed wick used for lighting candles, lamps, or fires.

Usage Example

"The sacristan used a long brass-held candle to light the high altar candles before the evening service."

Strong
candle
bougie
spill

Opposites of taper

The opposite of taper shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

widen
flare
broaden
intensify
increase
widening
escalate
thicken
See all opposites of taper

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Taper. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/taper
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