To make thin, weak, or less intense; to reduce in force, value, or amount. Often used to describe weakening signals, diluting solutions, or diminishing effects over time.
From Latin 'attenuatus,' past participle of 'attenuare' meaning 'to make thin,' from 'ad-' (to) plus 'tenuis' (thin). Originally used in physical contexts but expanded to describe any kind of weakening or reduction.
Picture a radio signal getting weaker as you drive away from the station—it's being attenuated by distance. The 'ten' in the middle connects to 'tenuous' (thin), helping you remember it means making something thinner or weaker.
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