trims; trimmed; trimming
1
a
: to cut (something) off something else : to remove (something) by cutting
—often + away, from, or off
She trimmed away the dead branches.
She trimmed the fat from/off the meat.
b
: to make (something) neat by cutting it
He trimmed his mustache.
The hedges need to be trimmed.
2
: to make the size, amount, or extent of (something) smaller
They are looking for ways to trim the budget.
3
: to decorate (something) especially around the edges with ribbons, ornaments, etc.
We trimmed the Christmas tree.
a pillow trimmed in/with lace
4
: to adjust (a boat's sails) in order to move faster
The sailors trimmed the sails.
trimmer; trimmest
1
: neat and orderly
a trim lawn
2
: slim and healthy
She has a trim figure.
He keeps fit and trim by biking.
plural trims
1
: an act of trimming something (such as hair)
—usually singular
He went to the barber for a trim.
The lawn needs a trim.
2
: material (such as ribbons, lace, etc.) that is used for decorating something especially around its edges
a skirt with lace trim
The house is gray with black trim. [=the pieces of wood around the doors, windows, etc., are painted black]
—usually singularThe fabric has a gold trim.
Cite this Entry
“Trim.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/trim. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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