To efface something means to cause it to disappear or become less noticeable, often by wearing it away or covering it up. It implies a process of gradual removal or obliteration, whether physical (erasing writing) or figurative (erasing memories or a reputation). It can describe an action, like erasing a message, or a state, like a memory being effaced by time. The object being effaced is made indistinct, obscure, or non-existent. Often, effacing involves a deliberate attempt to remove something. The word also carries a connotation of finality and permanence; the removal is often understood as complete.
Effaces meaning with examples
- The relentless desert wind slowly effaces the ancient carvings on the sandstone cliffs, blurring the stories etched there by long-forgotten civilizations. Over centuries, the natural erosion meticulously smooths the surface, diminishing the visibility of the detailed artwork and causing it to slowly fade. The artist watched with mixed feelings as the power of nature effaced his work.
- Trying to start fresh, Sarah hoped that time would eventually efface the painful memories of her past relationship. The therapy sessions provided some coping mechanisms and allowed her to confront the painful times. She knew that only time could erase her thoughts of the difficult period. Slowly and surely, the scars began to fade, leaving a less vivid impression.
- The government ordered the demolition of the statue, hoping to efface the history of the former leader and rewrite the official narrative. The move triggered significant controversy and highlighted the power of governments to remove symbols. The destruction of historical artifacts would also efface a part of culture.
- Rain and weathering can efface the paint on a building, making the surface appear more plain and revealing the raw materials. The weather, constantly at work, erased the bright colors until they turned a neutral gray color. The rain and wind slowly degraded the facade, reducing the value of the building.
- After decades, time had completely effaced the original inscription on the gravestone, leaving only a smooth, weathered surface. The stone, once containing important information, became a nameless piece of rock. The constant weathering caused by sun, rain and wind eventually erased the details, leaving the grave nameless.
Effaces Crossword Answers
6 Letters
ERASES