as in shaving
to make (something) shorter or smaller with the use of a cutting instrument
the hair stylist started by lopping off several inches from her long tresses, before beginning to shape what was left
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lopping (off)
Verb
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There wasn’t even a full question asked about the secret project using computer technology aimed at shaving fractions of a second off speedskating times to help the Americans bring home gold medals from the Milan Cortina Olympics.—
Howard Fendrich,
Chicago Tribune,
4 Feb. 2026 -
Some of the same men involved in the NBA case were also indicted earlier this month in what federal prosecutors in Pennsylvania say was a college basketball point-shaving ring.—
Mike Vorkunov,
New York Times,
27 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Although the Jayhawks led by as many as 21 points, BYU stayed within striking distance in the second half, cutting the lead to six as the clock ticked under two minutes to go.—
Arkansas Online,
Arkansas Online,
1 Feb. 2026
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There were cancellations and delays, with the Department of Transportation cutting flights due to safety concerns.—
Caitlin Yilek,
CBS News,
31 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Some school districts are already calling for e-learning on Friday, and trains across the city are cutting back on service.—
Marissa Sulek,
CBS News,
22 Jan. 2026
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While low-income shoppers are cutting back on spending, high earners keep infusing the economy with their cash, fueled by stock and real estate gains.—
Tristan Bove,
Fortune,
12 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Georgia continues to find some rhythm offensively, trimming the lead to 14 at the third media timeout.—
Tony Catalina,
Austin American Statesman,
31 Jan. 2026
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City officials are now considering trimming or removing trees near the fields to improve visibility and reduce glare.—
Nina Burns,
CBS News,
31 Jan. 2026
Verb
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As my fellow wholesale shoppers know, the real culprit is that side-clipping cup.—
Patricia Shannon,
Southern Living,
1 Feb. 2026
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Doing a quick scan of weekly sales, clipping coupons ahead of time and knowing what's in season can also shape smarter choices.—
Daryl Austin,
USA Today,
31 Jan. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Lopping (off).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lopping%20%28off%29. Accessed 8 Feb. 2026.
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