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

• 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

Since taking office again in January, Trump has accessorized the executive mansion with splashes of gold trimming. —Savannah Kuchar, USA Today, 24 June 2025

The company says tree trimming and storm response, infrastructure investments, inflation and rising costs are driving these new rates. —Karl Schneider, IndyStar, 24 June 2025

Her finale look was fun, festive and a lot more embellished with its sparkly adornments, feather trimming and low-cut back. —Michelle Lee, People.com, 13 June 2025

One company reported purchasing all available trimmings in its operating region, raising concerns that rising demand could incentivize additional fishing. —Felicia Jackson, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025

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