trimming

noun

trim·​ming ˈtri-miŋ 

1

a

: an additional garnishing

turkey and all the trimmings

b

: a decorative accessory or additional item

trimmings for a hat

c

: the remnants of something that has been trimmed : clipping

tree/grass/hedge trimmings

2

: defeat, beating

3

: the act of one who trims

Synonyms of trimming

• defeat
• beating
• loss
• whipping
• setback
• licking

Examples of trimming in a Sentence

our football team suffered a pretty severe trimming

Recent Examples on the Web

This effort includes tree trimming and vegetation management as well as replacing poles, cross arms, and lines. — Tara Lynch, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026

Some plants benefit from section trimming, while others require individual cuts. — Andrea Beck, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2026

Getting your neighbor’s permission can also improve the quality of the trimming. — Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 7 Aug. 2026

To manage shape and long vines, light trimming can be done every few months, or do a major pruning once or twice a year. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 3 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for trimming

• brimming
• dimming
• miming
• rimming
• skimming
• slimming
• swimming

Kids Definition

trimming

noun

trim·​ming

ˈtrim-iŋ

1

: the action of one that trims

2

: a severe defeat or beating

3

: something that trims, ornaments, or completes

trimmings for a hat

turkey with all the trimmings