Meaning & Definition
noun
pieces that have been cut off or reduced from something.
The trimming from the cake was put aside for the staff to enjoy.
decorative elements added to an object.
The dress was beautiful, enhanced by the intricate trimming along the hem.
verb
the act of cutting something back to a desired shape or size.
She spent the afternoon trimming the hedges in her garden.
to remove excess material from something.
After sewing the dress, I had to do some trimming on the edges.
to adjust or prepare something for a particular purpose.
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.
Slang Meanings
To adjust or refine something in a casual sense.
He was trimming his budget to afford the new gadget.
To embellish or enhance a story or situation.
She trimmed the story a bit to make it more entertaining.