ENGLISH
REFERENCE

on the wane

idiom
Meaning

in a period of decrease or decline


Examples
SIMPLE

Her interest in the hobby is on the wane.

CONTEXTUAL

Sales were strong in spring, but demand is on the wane as summer ends.

COMPLEX

The old traditions, once central to village life, are on the wane, remembered now only by a handful of elders.

Anchors to

Last updated April 17, 2026