efface
What does "efface" mean?
To efface something is to erase it, wipe it out, or make it indistinct. The mental image is of someone rubbing out a pencil mark or walking over sand to smooth away footprints until the original impression is completely gone. In modern usage, this verb is most frequently encountered in the reflexive phrase "to self-efface," meaning to keep oneself in the background or avoid drawing attention to oneself. It carries a slightly intellectual or elevated tone, often used when describing someone who is modest to the point of disappearing into the crowd.
"efface" in conversation
Discussing a humble colleague
Do you think Mark will ever run for manager?
Do you think Mark will ever run for manager?
Probably not. He tends to efface himself during meetings, even when he has the best ideas.
Probably not. He tends to efface himself during meetings, even when he has the best ideas.
Used here to describe someone who intentionally avoids being noticed.
Observing an old monument
The centuries of rain have effaced the inscription on the tombstone.
The centuries of rain have effaced the inscription on the tombstone.
It's a shame, I can barely make out the name.
It's a shame, I can barely make out the name.
Used here in the physical sense of wearing away surface markings.
"efface" in a sentence
The heavy rain effaced our footprints in the mud.
The heavy rain effaced our footprints in the mud.
She chose to efface her own contributions to ensure the team got the credit.
She chose to efface her own contributions to ensure the team got the credit.
Time has effaced the bitter memories of the conflict, leaving only a desire for peace.
Time has effaced the bitter memories of the conflict, leaving only a desire for peace.
