Shave: meaning, definitions and examples

See first instance in the list.

Used when cutting something to make it shorter or tidier, often hair or nails.

• He trims his bangs every month
• She asked the gardener to trim the hedges

Used when discussing taking care of one’s appearance by trimming or arranging hair, often used for both people and animals.

• He spends a lot of time grooming his hair
• The dog needs to be groomed regularly

Used for removing something from a surface harshly or roughly. It can have a negative connotation.

• She scraped the burnt food off the pan
• He scraped the ice off his windshield

Commonly used to describe the act of removing hair from the face or body using a razor or other sharp instrument. Usually refers to a daily or routine grooming activity, especially for facial hair.

• He needs to shave every morning before work.
• I decided to shave my legs before the beach trip.

A general term that covers all kinds of methods for eliminating hair, including temporary and permanent techniques. It can refer to shaving, waxing, laser treatment, etc.

• Hair removal services at the spa include laser treatments and waxing.
• She researched different hair removal techniques before choosing laser treatment.

This phrase may suggest a more significant act of removing hair, often implying cutting off a large quantity at once or changing one's appearance drastically. Sometimes it can have a slightly informal or casual tone.

• He decided on shaving off his beard after ten years.
• She is considering shaving off all her hair for a fresh start.

This term is often used in a more clinical or technical context, referring to the removal of hair, particularly temporary methods like using a depilatory cream, waxing, or sugaring.

• The beauty parlor offers various methods of depilation, including waxing and sugaring.
• Depilation creams are an alternative for those who avoid shaving.