Trim Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trim

[trɪm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

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To remove the outer edges or excess parts of something.

Synonyms

clip, cut, prune, shave.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
trim	This word is used when you want to make something tidy or even by cutting unwanted parts away. It is often used for hair, fabric, and hedges. I need to trim the hedge She went to the salon to trim her hair
cut	Cut is a general term used for separating something using a sharp instrument. It can refer to a variety of contexts including cutting paper, cutting vegetables, or cutting fabric. Cut the paper along the dotted line She cut the vegetables for the salad
prune	This word is mostly used in gardening when you need to cut away dead or overgrown branches or stems to encourage growth. It's time to prune the rose bushes I need to prune the tree to keep it healthy
clip	Clip is often used when referring to quickly removing small parts using scissors or similar tools. It is also used for nails or coupons. I need to clip my nails Don't forget to clip the coupon before you go shopping
shave	Shave is used specifically in the context of removing hair from the body, typically with a razor. He needs to shave his beard She shaved her legs this morning

Examples of usage

Please trim the bushes in the garden.
She trimmed her hair to shoulder length.
The chef trimmed the fat from the meat before cooking.
The company decided to trim its workforce to reduce costs.
The dress was too long, so she trimmed it with scissors.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

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A decorative addition to clothing or fabric, often in the form of a strip of material.

Synonyms

border, decoration, edging, ornament.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
trim	Refers to the act of cutting something to make it neat or the state of being in good condition, often used in physical fitness or haircuts. He needs to trim his hair before the wedding. She runs every day to stay in trim.
decoration	Used to describe items or designs that are added to enhance the appearance of a space or object, usually temporary or for a specific occasion. We put up Halloween decorations around the house. The cake had beautiful decorations on top.
ornament	Refers to an item used primarily for decoration, often implying something small and detailed. Commonly used in holiday contexts. She collected Christmas ornaments. The statue was covered with intricate ornaments.
edging	Refers to a narrow border around something, often used in gardening, clothing, or construction. Garden beds can be outlined with stone edging. He stitched a matching edging around the scarf.
border	Refers to a line that separates two areas. Often used in geographical, artistic, or design contexts. The painting had a gold border. They live near the border between the USA and Canada.

Examples of usage

The dress had a beautiful lace trim along the hem.
She added a floral trim to the curtains in the living room.
The pillowcases were adorned with a delicate satin trim.
The jacket featured a faux fur trim around the collar.
The tablecloth had a gold trim that added elegance to the dining table.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

'Trim' often refers to preparing food by cutting away less desirable parts, like fat on meat or rough edges on vegetables.
In baking, trimming dough ensures it fits perfectly in a pie dish or tart pan, enhancing the visual appeal.
Cooks emphasize trimming ingredients for better textures and flavors in the final dish.

Home Improvement

In construction, 'trim' refers to the decorative elements around doors, windows, and floors, enhancing a room's design.
Trim work can significantly affect a home’s aesthetic, showcasing craftsmanship and style.
Decorative trim styles vary widely, from ornate crown molding to sleek contemporary styles.

Fitness

In fitness contexts, being 'trim' refers to having a healthy, fit body, often associated with balanced nutrition and exercise.
Fitness programs often promote trimming body fat to enhance overall health and appearance.
Many athletes focus on trimming excess weight to improve performance in their respective sports.

Fashion

'Trim' in fashion refers to the embellishments or finishes that enhance the look of clothing, such as lace, beading, or ribbons.
Fashion designers carefully selected trims to complement fabrics and elevate their designs.
Sleek, well-trimmed clothing is often associated with modern style and professionalism.

Origin of 'trim'

Main points about word origin

The word 'trim' originates from the Middle English 'trimmen,' meaning to make neat or strong.
Old Norse 'trimr' referred to someone who was strong or fit, reflecting the idea of neatness.
Initially used for physical appearance, 'trim' expanded to include anything that can be made neater.

The word 'trim' originated from the Old English word 'trymian', meaning to make firm or strong. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the act of cutting or shaping something. 'Trim' has been used in various contexts, from trimming trees and bushes to adding decorative trim to clothing and fabric. It is a versatile word that remains commonly used in everyday language.

See also: trimmer, trimmers, trimming, trimmings, trimness.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,853 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8850 farewell
8851 endurance
8852 excused
8853 trim
8854 distillation
8855 inventor
8856 biochemical
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