whittling (down)

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for whittling (down)
Verb
  • Video games are Whitehead’s usual palate cleanser between projects, but lately he’s been cutting back.
    Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 22 June 2026
  • Keep your ferns tidy by cutting back old, decaying growth.
    SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • Value your time by turning down unpaid tasks.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 17 June 2026
  • Tips for Reducing Home Cooling Costs To further maximize your energy savings, consider these tips for cooling your home without turning down the AC.
    Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 June 2026
Verb
  • The fire spread into the building, compromising its roof, keeping firefighters from going inside and quickly knocking down the flames.
    Jazmin Alvarado, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026
  • In both cases, tornadoes about 200 yards wide traveled roughly 2 miles, toppling trees, tossing lawn furniture and knocking down power lines.
    Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 21 June 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 30 Jun. 2026.

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