verb
-pers; -pered; -pering
[no obj] :to become gradually smaller toward one end
taper off
[phrasal verb]
to become gradually less and less :to decrease slowly
noun
plural -pers
[count] a piece of string covered with wax that is used for lighting lamps, candles, etc.
a long, thin candle
[singular] :the shape of something that becomes gradually smaller toward one end