tapered
Americanadjective
-
becoming gradually thinner, narrower, or smaller toward one end.
The tapered table leg has long been a classic design.
The wine’s bouquet hit our nostrils the moment we opened the elegantly tapered bottle.
-
reduced gradually over time.
Once the allergic reaction had been alleviated, the patient was discharged with a tapered steroid dose and scheduled for outpatient follow-up.
verb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of tapered
First recorded in 1620–30; taper 1 ( def. ) + -ed 2 ( def. ) for the adjective senses; taper 1 ( def. ) + -ed 1 ( def. ) for the verb sense
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
After I came off the bipolar meds, a different medication helped me through a hard year, and when I was ready, I tapered off slowly while working with my doctor.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 30, 2026
Instead, the company cut back on certain discounts, pulled some products from shelves and tapered the availability of others.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 24, 2026
Some have sent a detailed proposal to the department setting out a "tapered" alternative scheme.
From BBC ● Aug. 21, 2026
According to the simulations, this low-angle impact explains the basin's distinctive elongated and tapered shape.
From Science Daily ● Jun. 22, 2026
Holly, too, had a slim frame with long tapered fingers, perfect for wrapping around a buzz baton.
From "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer
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