1 B2 idiomatic neutral
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."
peter out
B2 neutral intransitive
To gradually decrease and then stop or disappear entirely.
In plain English
To slowly get smaller and smaller until there is nothing left.
What does "peter out" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
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."
3 B2 idiomatic neutral
For a conversation, movement, or activity to gradually lose momentum and stop.
"The protest movement petered out when its key leaders left the city."
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "peter out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
enthusiasm trail conversation movement energy hope
How to conjugate "peter out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
peter out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
peters out
he/she/it
Past simple
petered out
yesterday
Past participle
petered out
have + pp
-ing form
petering out
continuous
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