Efface

To **efface** means to wipe out, erase, or obliterate something, either physically or metaphorically. It implies removing something so completely that it is no longer recognizable or perceivable. This can apply to physical marks, written words, memories, identities, or even reputations. The act of effacement involves a deliberate attempt to make something disappear or become inconspicuous, often through destruction, suppression, or concealment. It suggests a forceful action resulting in total or near-total removal. The key concept is the complete or near-complete elimination of something from existence or notice.

Efface meaning with examples

• The relentless desert wind sought to efface the footprints left by the travelers. The harsh conditions quickly eroded the markings, turning the clear imprints into indistinguishable dust. The unforgiving landscape served as a natural force, determined to erase any trace of human passage and returning the terrain to its pristine state. The aim was to eliminate any visual remnants.
• History's relentless attempt to efface the impact of the historical scandal had a long, uphill battle to fight. The aim was to erase it from public memory and erase any lingering reputation the event had within the media and on people's personal records. Despite the efforts, the impact on the affected families was felt and could not be erased.
• Driven by guilt, he tried to efface the memory of the accident from his mind. He attempted all manner of distraction in the effort to wipe it clean. The painful recollection haunted him, and he yearned to forget, even attempting hypnosis in a desperate attempt to bury the experience deep in his subconscious and delete any remaining memories from his psyche.
• The dictator ordered his likeness **effaced** from all public monuments after he was deposed. The change was made swiftly, removing any reminder of his reign and removing any indication of his past legacy and authority. Sculptures were demolished, portraits were burned, and inscriptions were removed. His goal was to completely obliterate every physical symbol of his authority.
• The artist used a powerful solvent to efface the initial sketches from the canvas. The artist desired a fresh start, intent on removing the mistakes and erasing the errors to start anew. He planned to begin with a pristine surface, a clean slate ready to be filled with a completely new vision, discarding his previous artwork.