Clipping: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when a longer word is shortened, typically by omitting the beginning or ending. It’s often used in informal speech.

• 'Exam' is a clipping of 'examination.'
• 'Lab' is a clipping of 'laboratory.'

This term broadly refers to the process of making something shorter. It can be used in various contexts, including language (similar to clipping) and cooking.

• 'Phone' is a shortening of 'telephone.'
• Shortening the meeting time helped everyone stay focused.

This term is used to describe a word or phrase that has been shortened by using its initial letters. It often involves acronyms and initialisms and is common in both formal and informal contexts.

• 'USA' is an abbreviation for 'United States of America.'
• 'ASAP' is an abbreviation for 'as soon as possible.'

Generally used to describe the act of cutting something to make it shorter. This can refer to hair, but also to other things like nails or plants.

• She gave her plants a light clipping to keep them neat.
• I need to give my dog a quick clipping before the summer heat.

Commonly used to describe a short haircut, but can also be used to refer to the act of cutting something, such as the edges of a photo or a piece of fabric.

• She opted for a stylish crop to keep her hair manageable.
• The image was too large, so I had to crop the edges.

Specifically refers to a very short hairstyle achieved by using electric clippers, often associated with military personnel or low-maintenance styling.

• He decided to get a buzz cut for the summer.
• After joining the army, he had to get a buzz cut.

Typically used when you are cutting small pieces from something, like a newspaper, a coupon, or even small parts of a plant.

• She spent the morning clipping articles from old magazines.
• Make sure you have all the necessary coupon clippings before we go shopping.
• Clipping the tips of the roses will help them grow better.

Generally used when you are cutting something to make it neat and tidy, such as hair, grass, or a hedge. It suggests a light, careful, and precise action.

• He is trimming his beard in the bathroom.
• The gardener is trimming the hedges to make them look even.
• She’s trimming the excess fat off the meat before cooking.

Usually refers to the act of cutting away dead or overgrown branches or stems, mainly in gardening and horticulture to promote healthier plant growth. This term carries a positive connotation.

• She spent the afternoon pruning the apple trees in the garden.
• Pruning back the roses will encourage them to produce more blooms.
• Pruning the unnecessary tasks from your schedule can make you more productive.