Wane
mediumNegative toneWAYN
verb
Definition
To decrease in vigor, power, or extent; become weaker
Memory hook
WANE: The WANing moon gets smaller each night -- declining and fading away.
Examples
“His influence waned after the scandal.”
“Interest in the fad quickly waned.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His influence ______ after the scandal.”
Show answer
waned
Categories
GRE Tip
Wane is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "diminish" or "decline" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "wax".
Related GRE Words
dwindle
To diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength
degenerate
To decline or deteriorate physically, mentally, or morally
deteriorate
To become progressively worse
attenuate
To reduce the force, effect, or value of; to weaken
enfeeble
To make weak or feeble
languish
To lose or lack vitality; to suffer from being forced to remain in an unpleasant place or situation
Master wane and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.