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

Alternatives to declawing include regular home claw trimming (every one to two weeks), and application of soft claw caps. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Feb. 2026

Don't burn your dead, dry garden trimmings. —Brenda Daly, Florida Times-Union, 28 Feb. 2026

While many bushes require frequent trimming or pampering, these low-maintenance beauties thrive without the need for constant care. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026

Consider needed tree trimming; have the work performed before hurricane season. —Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Feb. 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