Meaning

(transitive) To reduce slightly; to cut; especially, to remove excess..

Definitions by Sense

1. (transitive) To reduce slightly; to cut; especially, to remove excess.
2. (transitive) To decorate or adorn; especially of a Christmas tree.
3. (transitive, aviation, of an aircraft) To adjust the positions of control surfaces, sometimes using trim tabs, so as to modify or eliminate the aircraft's tendency to pitch, roll, or yaw when the cockpit controls are released.
4. (transitive, nautical, of a vessel) To modify the angle relative to the water by shifting cargo or ballast; to adjust for sailing; to assume, or cause to assume a certain position, or trim, in the water.
5. (transitive, nautical, of a vessel's sails) To modify the angle (of the sails) relative to the wind, especially to set them at the most advantageous angle.
6. (dated) To balance; to fluctuate between parties, so as to appear to favour each.
7. (transitive) To make trim; to put in due order for any purpose; to make right, neat, or pleasing; to adjust.
8. (transitive, carpentry, of timber) To dress; to make smooth.

Example Sentences

He trimmed his beard before the interview.

The hedge needs to be trimmed.

Place the screen material in the frame, secure it in place, and trim the edges.

The company trimmed jobs for the second time this year.

A ranch steak is usually trimmed of all excess fat.

They traditionally trim the tree on Christmas Eve.

A rotten building newly trimmed over.

I was trimmed in Madam Julia's gown.

Word Forms

• trims
• trimming
• trimmed
• trimmer
• trimmest

Synonyms for trim

Related Words

When Should You Use Trim?

Use trim when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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