peter out
To slowly get smaller and smaller until there is nothing left.
Meanings
For something to gradually diminish and come to an end, especially a path, flow, or supply.
"The dirt track petered out at the edge of the forest, leaving us with no clear route."
For enthusiasm, energy, or interest to gradually fade until it stops.
"Our motivation to redecorate the house petered out after we finished just two rooms."
For a conversation, movement, or activity to gradually lose momentum and stop.
"The protest movement petered out when its key leaders left the city."
Always intransitive. The origin of 'peter' in this phrase is uncertain, possibly from French 'péter' (to break wind) or from mining slang. Used for physical things (paths, rivers), abstract things (enthusiasm, hope), and events (conversations, movements). Common in both British and American English.
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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