English Reference

Word

trimming

Phoneticstrim·ming, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈtɹɪmɪŋ/

UK/tɹˈɪmɪŋ/

Countable & uncountable

Definition

n. the extra things that come with a main dish or a celebration to make it complete. It often refers to the side dishes served with a large holiday meal.

n. the traditional accompaniments or garnishes served with a main course, especially during a festive meal. Often used in the plural form to describe the complete set of side dishes and decorations.

Examples

“We had a full turkey dinner with all the trimmings.”

“For Thanksgiving, my grandmother prepares a massive roast with all the trimmings, including stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes.”

“The restaurant offers a traditional Sunday roast with all the trimmings, ensuring that every element from the Yorkshire pudding to the seasonal vegetables meets historical standards.”

Examples

simple

“We had a full turkey dinner with all the trimmings.”

contextual

“For Thanksgiving, my grandmother prepares a massive roast with all the trimmings, including stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes.”

complex

“The restaurant offers a traditional Sunday roast with all the trimmings, ensuring that every element from the Yorkshire pudding to the seasonal vegetables meets historical standards.”

Usage

Commonly used in the plural form 'trimmings' when referring to food or decorations; often appears in the idiomatic phrase 'with all the trimmings'.

Real-World Examples

“This will give you a smoother, less patchy final look.” “Trimming a goatee properly takes a bit of attention,” says Oakley.”
British GQ 19 Feb 2025

Word family

NOUN

trimming(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference