# trim

/ˈtɹɪm/ (US) · /tɹˈɪm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/trim
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to cut slightly

verb · CEFR B1

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

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

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

verb · CEFR B2

to add decorations to something, especially around the edges.

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

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

### 3. to adjust for balance

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

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

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

Teaching tip: This is a highly specific technical sense that students in general English courses rarely encounter.

### 4. a small haircut

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

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

### 5. decorative border

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

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

### 6. slim and fit

adjective · CEFR B2

having a healthy, slim body and looking neat.

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

- He has stayed trim and healthy by running every morning for the last ten years.
- Despite his age, the retired athlete maintained a trim figure through a disciplined regimen of swimming and careful dieting.

Teaching tip: This is a positive, complimentary word, unlike 'skinny' which can be negative.

## Examples

- I need to trim the hedges in the garden today.
- The barber suggested I trim my beard slightly to keep it looking professional for the interview.
- The department was instructed to trim its annual expenditure by ten percent without compromising the quality of essential public services or reducing the current headcount.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.