shaving
- 01 B1 Intermediate
the act of cutting hair very close to the skin using a razor.
the process of removing hair from the body by cutting it close to the skin with a razor or similar blade.
Simple“He bought a new cream to make shaving his face more comfortable.”
In context“Daily shaving can lead to skin irritation if a high-quality moisturiser is not applied immediately after the procedure.”
Usageoften used as an uncountable noun or a gerund
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a very thin piece of wood, metal, or plastic that has been cut off a larger piece.
a thin strip or fragment of material removed by a plane, drawknife, or other bladed tool.
Simple“The floor of the workshop was covered in wooden shavings.”
In context“The carpenter swept away the cedar shavings before applying the final coat of varnish to the handmade table.”
Usageusually plural when referring to the waste material
- 03 C2 Proficiency
a slang word for a stabbing.
a slang term for a stabbing or an attack with a sharp object.
Simple“The news reported a shaving that happened in the city centre last night.”
In context“The detective investigated a series of shavings that local gangs used as a method of intimidation.”
Teacher's tipThis is specific to Multicultural London English (MLE) and is not understood by most English speakers outside that specific urban context.
Synonymsstabbingknifing