n.
Pronunciation: ' w ā n
Function: intransitive verb
Inflected Form: waned ; wan · ing
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English wanian; akin to Old High German wan ō n to wane, Old English wan wanting, deficient, Latin vanus empty, vain
Date: before 12th century
1 : to decrease in size, extent, or degree : DWINDLE : as a : to diminish in phase or intensity ― used chiefly of the moon, other satellites, and inferior planets b : to become less brilliant or powerful : DIM c : to flow out : EBB
2 : to fall gradually from power, prosperity, or influence
synonyms see ABATE