I. ˈwān intransitive verb
( waned ; wan·ing )
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English wanian; akin to Old High German wanōn 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
II. noun
Date: 14th century
1.
a. : the act or process of waning
strength on the wane
b. : a period or time of waning ; specifically : the period from the full moon to the new moon
2.
[Middle English, defect, from Old English wana; akin to Old English wan deficient]
: a defect in lumber characterized by bark or a lack of wood at a corner or edge