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
  • For people wondering how to avoid microplastics, experts say one of the smartest moves is simply cutting back on unnecessary plastic use.
    Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 May 2026
  • Most Dianthus plants can remain somewhat evergreen throughout the winter and nothing is gained by cutting back in the fall.
    Marie Iannotti, The Spruce, 9 May 2026
Verb
  • In hindsight, Julius Randle turning down a potential drive to the rim and instead lobbing a grenade to Rudy Gobert near the end of the shot clock was a harbinger of the rest of his night.
    Dane Mizutani, Twin Cities, 9 May 2026
  • Stanley Tucci is opening up about turning down opportunities to take part in food competition shows.
    Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 7 May 2026
Verb
  • The role players consistently knocking down shots would be big too.
    Zach Harper, New York Times, 11 May 2026
  • French guard Marine Johannes was equally unstoppable, knocking down five 3-pointers to finish with 17 points on top of five rebounds, three assists and three steals.
    Emily Adams, Hartford Courant, 9 May 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 19 May. 2026.

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