< Back
waning moon
Definition
A waning moon is a moon that is getting smaller. It is the opposite of a waxing moon.
The moon goes through a cycle of phases, from new moon to full moon and back again. The waning moon phase starts after the full moon and ends before the new moon.
During the waning moon phase, the moon appears to get smaller and smaller each day. The amount of the moon that is lit up by the sun also gets smaller each day.
The waning moon phase lasts for about two weeks.
How can the word be used?
The waning moon is a beautiful sight.
Different forms of the word
Noun: the moon in its last quarter, when the illuminated part is decreasing.
Etymology
The word "waning" comes from the Old English word "wanian", which means "to grow weak or less".
The first recorded use of the word "waning" in English was in the 14th century.
Question
What is a waning moon?