ə̇ˈfās, eˈ-, ēˈ- transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle French effacer, from ef- (from Latin, from ex- ) + face — more at face
1.
a. : to eliminate clear evidence of (something written, painted, or otherwise marked upon a surface) by abrasive or leveling action
the “murals” have long since been effaced by rock slides and the weathering of the cliff's wall — American Guide Series: Pennsylvania
b. : to cause to disappear : eliminate completely : wipe out : destroy , eradicate
his year … of peace had effaced all the ill effects of his previous suffering — Samuel Butler †1902
fire suppression … and a comprehensive program of reforestation have effaced the worst of the scars — American Guide Series: Michigan
2. : to remove from cognizance, consideration, or memory
he had left a mark on the affairs of the church which would not easily be effaced — R.W.Southern
also : to make insignificant : overshadow
the bloodthirsty aspect of the tyrant is becoming effaced — Norman Douglas
3. : to withdraw (oneself) entirely from attention : make (oneself) inconspicuous and modestly or shyly unnoticeable
the wife of a man who had done anything disgraceful in business had only one idea: to efface herself, to disappear with him — Edith Wharton
Synonyms: see erase