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REFERENCE

trim

v. · n. · adj.
US //ˈtɹɪm// UK //tɹˈɪm// trim
  1. 1 to cut slightly (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to cut a small amount off something to make it look neat or to remove parts you do not want.

    to reduce the size or improve the appearance of something by cutting away excess or irregular parts.

    Example

    He needs to trim the hedge because the branches are starting to block the path.

    Example

    The gardener spent the afternoon trimming the overgrown ivy to ensure it didn't damage the brickwork of the heritage building.

    Usage

    Often used with 'off' or 'away' when referring to the material being removed.
  2. 2 to decorate (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to add decorations to something, especially around the edges.

    to decorate or adorn something, particularly by adding contrasting material or ornaments to the edges.

    Example

    The children helped their parents trim the Christmas tree with lights and stars.

    Example

    The designer decided to trim the silk gown with silver lace to provide a subtle contrast against the dark fabric.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the context of 'trimming the tree' during Christmas.
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  1. 3 to adjust for balance (v.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    to adjust the position of a ship or aircraft so that it stays level and stable.

    to adjust the balance of a vessel or aircraft by shifting cargo or manipulating control surfaces.

    Example

    The pilot had to trim the aircraft to keep it flying straight without holding the controls.

    Example

    The crew worked quickly to trim the sails as the wind shifted, ensuring the boat maintained its speed through the choppy water.

    Usage

    Used as a transitive verb in both nautical and aviation contexts.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a highly specific technical sense that students in general English courses rarely encounter.
    • unbalance
  2. 4 a small haircut (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a quick act of cutting hair just to keep it at the same length and style.

    a minor cutting of hair intended to maintain an existing style rather than create a new one.

    Example

    I don't want a completely new style, just a quick trim to get rid of the split ends.

    Example

    She visited the salon for a light trim every six weeks to keep her bob looking sharp and professional.

    Usage

    Usually takes the indefinite article 'a'.
  3. 5 decorative border (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    material used to decorate the edges of something like a car, a piece of clothing, or a room.

    ornamental additions or edgings used to finish or decorate a garment, vehicle, or architectural feature.

    Example

    The car has leather seats with a red trim around the edges.

    Example

    The interior designer suggested a dark wood trim to complement the neutral tones of the living room walls.

    Usage

    Often uncountable when referring to the material itself.
  4. 6 slim and fit (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    having a healthy, slim body and looking neat.

    slender and physically fit in a way that suggests health and activity.

    Example

    He has stayed trim and healthy by running every morning for the last ten years.

    Example

    Despite his age, the retired athlete maintained a trim figure through a disciplined regimen of swimming and careful dieting.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a positive, complimentary word, unlike 'skinny' which can be negative.
Origin

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”).

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