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trim

verb

/trɪm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of trim

To cut, remove, or adjust something to make it neater, more even, or in proper proportion.
"The editor decided to trim some sections to tighten up the story."

Detailed meaning of trim

It involves removing excess or unwanted parts, shaping, or modifying to achieve a desired result. When applied to objects, "trimming" typically involves cutting or pruning to improve appearance or functionality. For example, one might trim the branches of a tree to maintain its shape or trim the hedges to keep them tidy. In the context of personal grooming, "trimming" often refers to cutting or shaping hair, beards, or nails to achieve a desired length or style. Additionally, "trim" can also denote reducing or cutting down an amount or quantity, such as trimming expenses or trimming down a document to make it more concise. In essence, the verb "trim" encompasses the act of cutting or adjusting something to enhance its appearance, functionality, or efficiency.

Example sentences containing trim

1. I need to trim the hedges before our guests arrive.
2. Can you trim the fat off the steak before grilling it?
3. They trim their Christmas tree with lights and ornaments every year.
4. To keep the garden looking neat, it’s important to trim the bushes regularly.
5. The seamstress will trim the excess fabric to make the dress fit perfectly.
6. He's going to trim the sails to improve the boat's speed in this wind.

History and etymology of trim

The verb 'trim' finds its linguistic roots in the Old English word 'trymian,' which is connected to the Old Norse 'trimma.' These words share a common ancestral origin in the Proto-Germanic term 'trimōną,' meaning 'to make firm or strong.' Over time, 'trim' has evolved to denote the action of cutting, removing, or adjusting something with precision to achieve a neater, more even, or properly proportioned appearance. It reflects the idea of enhancing the orderliness and tidiness of an object or entity by carefully modifying its outer aspects, making it a versatile and essential term in various contexts, from fashion to home improvement.

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Further usage examples of trim

1. The landscaper uses special shears to trim the topiary into animal shapes.
2. Budget cuts forced the department to trim their expenses.
3. She decided to trim her dog's fur to keep him cool during the summer.
4. The gardener taught me how to trim the roses to encourage more blooms.
5. I need to trim the overgrown bushes in my garden.
6. Can you trim the excess fabric from this dress?
7. He decided to trim his beard for a cleaner look.
8. The barber will trim your hair to your desired length.
9. She used scissors to trim the frayed edges of the paper.
10. Please trim the excess fat from the meat before cooking.
11. The tailor will trim the pants to fit perfectly.
12. It's time to trim the hedge to maintain its shape.
13. I'll trim the budget to allocate funds more efficiently.
14. Let's trim the guest list to a manageable size.
15. We should trim unnecessary features from the software.
16. She had to trim her expectations to a realistic level.
17. The chef will trim the vegetables for the salad.
18. We should trim the tree branches away from the power lines.
19. Can you trim the edges of the carpet for a neat finish?
20. I'll trim the excess code to improve the program's performance.
21. It's essential to trim the wick of the candle before lighting it.
22. He decided to trim down the number of meetings we have.
23. She asked the stylist to trim her bangs.
24. They will trim the sails to catch the wind more effectively.