Prune

/pruːn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A dried plum.

I added a few prunes to my breakfast for added fiber.

An item that is removed, particularly in the context of a decision or selection process.

After the review, several prunes were made to the original manuscript to enhance clarity.

verb

To trim a tree, shrub, or plant by cutting away dead or overgrown branches or stems, to encourage growth.

In the spring, we prune the rose bushes to promote a healthier and more abundant bloom.

To reduce or eliminate something by removing parts, especially to improve effectiveness.

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.

To cut back on something unnecessarily excessive.

We need to prune our plans to avoid overwhelming ourselves.

To get rid of unneeded things or people.

She decided to prune her friends list on social media.