rim
n. · v.-
1 outer edge (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatethe outer edge of a round object, like a cup, bowl, or plate.
the outer edge or border of an object, typically one that is circular or curved.
ExampleShe wiped a small smudge of lipstick off the rim of her coffee cup.
ExampleThe archaeologist carefully brushed the dirt away from the rim of the ancient clay vessel, revealing a delicate pattern of etched lines.
-
2 wheel part (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatethe outer metal circle of a wheel that the tire is attached to.
the outer circular metal part of a wheel on which the tyre is mounted.
ExampleHe spent the whole afternoon cleaning the chrome rims of his new car.
ExampleThe impact with the deep pothole was severe enough to dent the alloy rim, causing the tyre to lose pressure immediately.
UsageOften used in the plural when referring to decorative car wheels.
Show 2 more sensesShow fewer
-
3 to border (v.) C1 Advanced Literaryto form an edge or border around something.
to serve as a rim or border for something; to surround the edge of an object.
ExampleDark clouds rimmed with gold appeared on the horizon as the sun set.
ExampleThe valley was rimmed by jagged limestone peaks that remained snow-capped even during the height of the summer months.
UsageOften used in the passive voice or as a participial adjective.
-
4 sexual act (v.) C2 Proficiency Slang Vulgarto perform a specific sexual act involving the mouth and the partner's bottom.
to perform anilingus on a partner.
ExampleHe asked his partner if they were comfortable with rimming during sex.
ExampleThe adult film industry often uses explicit terminology like rimming to describe specific scenes in their marketing materials.
UsageTransitive verb.
Teacher's tipThis is a highly explicit term; learners should be aware of its vulgarity and avoid it in all but the most intimate or informal contexts.