Meaning & Definition of word "Prune"

Prune

/pruːn/

1. A dried plum.
- Example: I added a few prunes to my breakfast for added fiber.
2. An item that is removed, particularly in the context of a decision or selection process.
- Example: After the review, several prunes were made to the original manuscript to enhance clarity.

1. To trim a tree, shrub, or plant by cutting away dead or overgrown branches or stems, to encourage growth.
- Example: In the spring, we prune the rose bushes to promote a healthier and more abundant bloom.
2. To reduce or eliminate something by removing parts, especially to improve effectiveness.
- Example: The manager decided to prune the project to focus on the most critical components.

Middle English, from Old French 'pruner', from Latin 'prunare' meaning 'to prune, trim'.

prune back:

To reduce the size or amount of something.

prune the budget:

To cut expenses or reduce financial allocations.

prune the workforce:

To lay off employees or reduce staffing levels.

trimming:

The act of cutting off the unnecessary parts.

hedge:

A fence or boundary formed by a dense row of shrubs or low trees.

grooming:

The act of cleaning or tidying up, often related to plants or animals.

Meaning: To cut back on something unnecessarily excessive.

Example Sentence: We need to prune our plans to avoid overwhelming ourselves.

Meaning: To get rid of unneeded things or people.

Example Sentence: She decided to prune her friends list on social media.