Meaning & Definition of word "Trimming"

Trimming

/ˈtrɪmɪŋ/

noun:

  • 1. pieces that have been cut off or reduced from something.
    • Example: The trimming from the cake was put aside for the staff to enjoy.
  • 2. decorative elements added to an object.
    • Example: The dress was beautiful, enhanced by the intricate trimming along the hem.

verb:

  • 1. the act of cutting something back to a desired shape or size.
    • Example: She spent the afternoon trimming the hedges in her garden.
  • 2. to remove excess material from something.
    • Example: After sewing the dress, I had to do some trimming on the edges.
  • 3. to adjust or prepare something for a particular purpose.
    • Example: The chef is trimming the meat to ensure it cooks evenly.

Etymology

Middle English, from 'trimmen' meaning to make trim or neat.

Common Phrases and Expressions

trimming the fat:

The process of eliminating unnecessary or excess elements.

trimming down:

To reduce in size or amount.

trimming one's sails:

To adjust one's actions or plans according to circumstances.

Related Words

pruning:

The act of cutting away dead or overgrown branches or stems.

shearing:

The act of cutting the wool off a sheep or trimming back plants.

cropping:

The act of cutting or trimming off the edges of something.

Slang Meanings of trimming

Meaning: To adjust or refine something in a casual sense.

Example Sentence: He was trimming his budget to afford the new gadget.

Meaning: To embellish or enhance a story or situation.

Example Sentence: She trimmed the story a bit to make it more entertaining.