Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Taper \Ta"per\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Tapered}; p. pr. & vb. n.
   {Tapering}.]
   To become gradually smaller toward one end; as, a sugar loaf
   tapers toward one end.

Taper \Ta"per\, v. t.
   To make or cause to taper.

Taper \Ta"per\, n. [AS. tapur, tapor, taper; cf. Ir. tapar, W.
   tampr.]
   1. A small wax candle; a small lighted wax candle; hence, a
      small light.

            Get me a taper in my study, Lucius.   --Shak.

   2. A tapering form; gradual diminution of thickness in an
      elongated object; as, the taper of a spire.

Taper \Ta"per\, a. [Supposed to be from taper, n., in allusion
   to its form.]
   Regularly narrowed toward the point; becoming small toward
   one end; conical; pyramidical; as, taper fingers.

Source : WordNet®

taper
     n 1: a convex shape that narrows toward a point
     2: the property possessed by a shape that narrows toward a
        point (as a wedge or cone)
     3: a loosely woven cord (in a candle or oil lamp) that draws
        fuel by capillary action up into the flame [syn: {wick}]
     4: stick of wax with a wick in the middle [syn: {candle}, {wax
        light}]

taper
     v 1: diminish gradually; "Interested tapered off"
     2: give a point to; "The candles are tapered" [syn: {sharpen},
        {point}]