waning moon

American  

noun

1. the moon at any time after the full moon and before the new moon, so called because its illuminated area is decreasing.

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Usage

What is a waning moon? The moon is called a waning moon when it is in the phase in which its visible surface area is getting smaller. A waning moon occurs between a full moon (when the visible surface is fully round and lit up) and a new moon (when the surface that faces Earth is completely covered in shadow).To wane is to decrease in some way. A moon is any natural satellite that orbits a planet, and the moon is Earth’s only natural satellite.While the moon could be said to be a waning moon at any time between a full moon and a new moon, a waning moon is frequently depicted as a crescent shape.

Etymology

Origin of waning moon

First recorded before 1000; Middle English; Old English

Compare meaning

How does waning-moon compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• waxing vs. waning moon
• waxing moon vs. waning moon

Example Sentences

“You should see it when there is a waning moon,” the Uncle said almost wistfully.

From Literature

“It must be done before the waning moon or her powers will be too strong and she will be free to terrorize Ravenskill once more,” said Mr. Dimblewit.

From Literature

“The notes say a Nightbeast emerges exactly six months from the beginning of its hibernation period, and it prefers to do so on the waning moon,” said Valley.

From Literature

She added that unlike most Jewish holidays, which start on the full moon, Hanukkah begins on the waning moon and continues through the dark moon.

From Los Angeles Times

The waning moon glimmered in the shallows of Rainbow Harbor, seagulls still blinking sleep from their eyes as the anglers huddled at the edge of the pier.

From Los Angeles Times