■ verb
1》 diminish or reduce in thickness towards one end.
2》 ( ~ off ) gradually lessen.
■ noun a slender candle.
↘a wick coated with wax, used for conveying a flame.
Origin
OE, dissimilated form (by alt. of p- to t- ) of L. papyrus (see papyrus ), the pith of which was used for candle wicks.