peter out

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/ˈpiːtər aʊt/
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To fade gradually until nothing remains.
Practice using peter out in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • The path peters out near the river.
  • Interest in the project petered out.
  • Their conversation petered out before dawn.
  • The applause petered out after a minute.
  • Without funding, the campaign slowly petered out.

Similar words

dwindle
taper off
fade away

Meanings

Gradually come to an end

change
neutral
To become weaker or smaller over time and then stop.

Examples

  • The applause petered out after a minute.
  • Interest in the project petered out.
  • The path peters out near the river.
  • Their conversation petered out before dawn.
  • Without funding, the campaign slowly petered out.

Similar words

fade away
dwindle
taper off

Etymology

The verb peter here means to dwindle, and out marks the point where the dwindling ends.

FAQ

What does peter out mean?

Peter out means to weaken gradually and then stop.

When is peter out used?

It describes things such as interest, conversation, activity or a path.

How does peter out differ from stop abruptly?

Stop abruptly means end suddenly, while peter out is gradual.

How is peter out used in a sentence?

Interest in the project petered out.

Is peter out formal?

No. It is common in speech and general writing.

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