The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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.
      [1913 Webster]

            Get me a taper in my study, Lucius.   --Shak.
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   2. A tapering form; gradual diminution of thickness in an
      elongated object; as, the taper of a spire.
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      [1913 Webster]

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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.
   [1913 Webster]

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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.
   [1913 Webster]

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Taper \Ta"per\, v. t.
   To make or cause to taper.
   [1913 Webster]

WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):

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,
       taper]
    4: stick of wax with a wick in the middle [syn: candle,
       taper, wax light]
    v 1: diminish gradually; "Interested tapered off"
    2: give a point to; "The candles are tapered" [syn: sharpen,
       taper, point]