whittling (down)

Definition of whittling (down)next
present participle of whittle (down)
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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for whittling (down)
Verb
  • Earth Day on the 22nd is a wonderful anchor for habits around sustainability like planting something, spending more intentional time outside, or cutting back on single-use plastics.
    Cheryl Russell, Oc Register, 19 Apr. 2026
  • That approach often comes with tradeoffs, like cutting back on alcohol or budgeting differently to afford the classes and trainers who know their name and celebrate their wins.
    Olivia Wakim, AJC.com, 15 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods are among the sport’s top stars to steadfastly remain loyal to the PGA Tour, with Woods turning down an offer from LIV Golf of $800 million in 2022.
    Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Some also favor turning down the heat and simmering eggs.
    ABC News, ABC News, 2 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Big man Neemias Queta even got in on the action for Boston, knocking down his first career 3 to go along with 10 rebounds.
    CBS News, CBS News, 10 Apr. 2026
  • Acknowledgment can also feel like the bare minimum, but the fight for it grows increasingly urgent when the American President is knocking down public memorials of slavery like tin ducks in a carnival shooting game.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 8 Apr. 2026
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Whittling (down).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/whittling%20%28down%29. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

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