whittle
verb (used with object)
to cut, trim, or shape (a stick, piece of wood, etc.) by carving off bits with a knife.
is whittling
-
present progressiveof whittle (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Pochettino’s task now, with only four exhibition matches remaining before the World Cup kicks off, is whittling down a squad that he has spent over a year tinkering with.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 6, 2025
The delay has raised fears in a region familiar with biting cold that climate change is whittling away at not just glaciers and coastlines, but also culture and ordinary life.
From Washington Post ● Feb. 16, 2023
Judah is whittling and sanding a stick he found — he wants to make a sword.
From New York Times ● Mar. 26, 2021
On this day, she is whittling a piece of wood into recognizable human form.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 5, 2020
Timothy Toad cried, "Willie Woodchuck is, whittling because he has nothing else to do!"
From Friendly Fairies by Johnny Gruelle
