# thinning

/ˈθɪnɪŋ/ (US) · /θˈɪnɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thinning
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the act of removing some plants or branches so the remaining ones have more space to grow. This helps the healthy plants get more light and food from the soil.

For teachers: the selective removal of plants, branches, or parts of a crop to improve the growth and yield of the remaining specimens. Often used in forestry and horticulture to reduce competition for light and nutrients.

## Examples

- Thinning the carrots helps the remaining ones grow larger.
- Proper thinning of the orchard ensures that the remaining fruit receives enough sunlight to ripen fully before harvest.
- In sustainable forestry, thinning is a critical management practice that reduces the density of the canopy to promote the health of the most vigorous trees.

## Usage notes

- Often functions as a gerund noun; frequently followed by the preposition 'of'.

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