n. & v.
--n.
1. a wick coated with wax etc. for conveying a flame.
2 a slender candle.
--v. (often foll. by off)
1. intr. & tr. diminish or reduce in thickness towards one end.
2 tr. & intr. make or become gradually less.
Etymology: OE tapur, -or, -er wax candle, f. L PAPYRUS, whose pith was used for candle-wicks