trim Definition

trim
verb trimmed, trimming

1. To make something neat and tidy, especially by clipping.

Thesaurus: prune, crop, clip, shear, pare down, lop, shave, cut, snip.
2. To remove by, or as if by, cutting.

Example: trim hundreds of pounds off the cost
Form: trim away (also)
Form: trim off
3. To make less by, or as if by, cutting.

Example: trim costs
4. To decorate with ribbons, lace, ornaments, etc.

Example: trimmed the dress with pink velvet
Thesaurus: adorn, decorate, embellish, beautify.
5. To adjust the balance of (a ship, submarine or aircraft) by moving its cargo, ballast, etc.
6. To arrange (a ship's sails) to suit the weather conditions.
intr
7. To hold a neutral or middle course between two opposing individuals or groups.
intr
8. To adjust one's behaviour to suit current trends or opinions, especially for self-advancement.

noun

1a. A haircut that is intended to neaten up an existing hairstyle rather than radically change the style;
1b. The act or process of giving or having this type of haircut.
2. Proper order or condition.

Example: in good trim
3. Material, ornaments, etc used as decoration.

Thesaurus: decoration, embellishment, ornament, garnish, fittings, trappings, adornment.
4. The decorative additions to a car, including the upholstery, internal and external colour scheme, and chrome and leather accessories.
5. The set or balance of a ship on the water.
6. Said of a ship: the state of being ready, especially with the sails in proper order, for sailing.
7. The inclination of an aircraft in flight, especially with reference to the horizon.
8. Parts removed by trimming.

adj trimmer, trimmest

1. In good order; neat and tidy.

Thesaurus: neat, well-dressed, orderly, shipshape, smart, spruce, trig.
2. Clean-cut; slim.

Thesaurus: slender, slim, svelte, streamlined, compact.

Derivative: trimmer

See separate entry.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon trymian to strengthen.