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wane

verb

/weɪn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of wane

To gradually decrease, decline, or diminish in terms of size, strength, intensity, or importance.
"The team's enthusiasm for the project started to wane after facing multiple setbacks."

Detailed meaning of wane

It implies a gradual fading or weakening over time. When an object or phenomenon wanes, it is undergoing a period of reduction or loss, often in a cyclical or natural manner. This can be observed in various contexts, such as the waning of the moon as it moves from a full to a crescent shape, the waning popularity of a particular trend or fashion, or the waning influence of a political leader as their power diminishes. "Wane" suggests a gradual and usually predictable decline rather than an abrupt or sudden disappearance, highlighting the ebbing nature of whatever is being described.

Example sentences containing wane

1. The sun's warm glow began to wane as evening approached.
2. His interest in playing video games began to wane as he discovered a new hobby.
3. The influence of the once-popular singer started to wane as younger artists emerged.
4. As winter approached, the daylight hours began to wane, and nights grew longer.
5. The politician's support among the public started to wane after several controversial decisions.
6. The company's profits began to wane due to increased competition in the market.

History and etymology of wane

The verb 'wane' has its etymological roots in Old English. It is derived from the Old English word 'wanian,' which means 'to lessen' or 'to diminish.' In Old English, 'wanian' was used to describe the gradual decrease or decline of something in terms of size, strength, intensity, or importance. Over time, this term evolved into the modern English 'wane,' retaining its fundamental meaning of a gradual diminishment or decline. 'Wane' is often associated with the changing phases of the moon, as it describes the moon's gradual decrease in visible illumination, going from full to crescent. The etymology of 'wane' underscores its historical association with the idea of diminishing or lessening, whether it be the moon's light or any other aspect that gradually decreases over time.

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Further usage examples of wane

1. Her energy levels started to wane after a long day at work.
2. The excitement of the crowd began to wane as the concert drew to a close.
3. The charm of the old town started to wane as modern developments took over.
4. The moon's brightness slowly waned, leaving a dimly lit night sky.
5. The student's motivation began to wane as the semester progressed and assignments piled up.
6. Her enthusiasm for the project began to wane.
7. The moon's brightness started to wane as night fell.
8. Interest in the trend began to wane over time.
9. His influence over the group began to wane.
10. The excitement of the crowd began to wane.
11. The team's performance seemed to wane in the second half.
12. As winter approached, daylight hours began to wane.
13. Confidence in the candidate began to wane after the scandal.
14. The support for the policy began to wane among voters.
15. The storm's intensity started to wane as it moved away.
16. Over the years, their friendship slowly began to wane.
17. Economic growth began to wane in the third quarter.
18. The musician's popularity didn't wane despite time.
19. The flowers' beauty would wane without proper care.
20. As the night wore on, his energy began to wane.
21. Interest in the sport started to wane among young people.
22. The excitement of the event began to wane after hours.
23. The novelty of the gadget began to wane for consumers.
24. The teacher noticed her students' attention wane.
25. Their love for each other never seemed to wane.