trim
- 01 B1 Intermediate
v.to cut a small amount off something to make it look neat or to remove parts you do not want.
v.to reduce the size or improve the appearance of something by cutting away excess or irregular parts.
Simple“He needs to trim the hedge because the branches are starting to block the path.”
In context“The gardener spent the afternoon trimming the overgrown ivy to ensure it didn't damage the brickwork of the heritage building.”
UsageOften used with 'off' or 'away' when referring to the material being removed.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to add decorations to something, especially around the edges.
v.to decorate or adorn something, particularly by adding contrasting material or ornaments to the edges.
Simple“The children helped their parents trim the Christmas tree with lights and stars.”
In context“The designer decided to trim the silk gown with silver lace to provide a subtle contrast against the dark fabric.”
UsageCommonly used in the context of 'trimming the tree' during Christmas.
- 03 C1 Advanced
v.to adjust the position of a ship or aircraft so that it stays level and stable.
v.to adjust the balance of a vessel or aircraft by shifting cargo or manipulating control surfaces.
Simple“The pilot had to trim the aircraft to keep it flying straight without holding the controls.”
In context“The crew worked quickly to trim the sails as the wind shifted, ensuring the boat maintained its speed through the choppy water.”
UsageUsed as a transitive verb in both nautical and aviation contexts.
Teacher's tipThis is a highly specific technical sense that students in general English courses rarely encounter.
- 04 B1 Intermediate
n.a quick act of cutting hair just to keep it at the same length and style.
n.a minor cutting of hair intended to maintain an existing style rather than create a new one.
Simple“I don't want a completely new style, just a quick trim to get rid of the split ends.”
In context“She visited the salon for a light trim every six weeks to keep her bob looking sharp and professional.”
UsageUsually takes the indefinite article 'a'.
Synonymshaircuttidying - 05 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.material used to decorate the edges of something like a car, a piece of clothing, or a room.
n.ornamental additions or edgings used to finish or decorate a garment, vehicle, or architectural feature.
Simple“The car has leather seats with a red trim around the edges.”
In context“The interior designer suggested a dark wood trim to complement the neutral tones of the living room walls.”
UsageOften uncountable when referring to the material itself.
- 06 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.having a healthy, slim body and looking neat.
adj.slender and physically fit in a way that suggests health and activity.
Simple“He has stayed trim and healthy by running every morning for the last ten years.”
In context“Despite his age, the retired athlete maintained a trim figure through a disciplined regimen of swimming and careful dieting.”
Teacher's tipThis is a positive, complimentary word, unlike 'skinny' which can be negative.
Antonymsoverweightuntidy
From Middle English trimen, trymen, trümen, from Old English trymman (“to make firm; strengthen”), from Proto-West Germanic trummjan, from Proto-Germanic trumjaną (“to make fast; strengthen”), from Proto-Germanic *trumaz (“firm; strong; sound”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.