whittling (down)

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for whittling (down)
Verb
  • For those looking to protect their long-term health, researchers emphasized that cutting back to one drink or giving up alcohol entirely appears to be the best strategy.
    Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 12 June 2026
  • For some, that includes cutting back on other necessities such as food, budgeting strictly to afford half a tank of gas a week and rethinking side hustles such as food delivery service.
    Lily Wright, Los Angeles Times, 12 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
  • 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
  • The 6-6 playmaker displayed his versatility on both ends, knocking down shots, creating for teammates and making an impact defensively against top competition from around the world.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 18 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.

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Whittling (down).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/whittling%20%28down%29. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster