trimmer

¹ American  

[trim-er] / ˈtrɪm ər /

noun

1. a person or thing that trims.

2. a tool or machine for trimming, clipping, paring, or pruning.

3. a machine for trimming lumber.

4. Building Trades.

   1. a joist or rafter supporting one of the ends of a header at the edge of a wellhole.

   2. a wall tile or floor tile for finishing an edge or angle.

5. an apparatus for stowing, arranging, or shifting cargo, coal, or the like.

6. a person who has no firm position, opinion, or policy, especially in politics.

7. a person who is committed to no particular political party, adapting to one side or another as expediency may dictate.

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trimmer ² American  

[trim-er] / ˈtrɪm ər /

adjective

1. comparative of trim.

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trimmer British  

/ ˈtrɪmə /

noun

1. Also called: trimmer joist.  a beam in a floor or roof structure attached to truncated joists in order to leave an opening for a staircase, chimney, etc

2. a machine for trimming timber

3. Also called: trimming capacitor.  electronics a variable capacitor of small capacitance used for making fine adjustments, etc

4. a person who alters his or her opinions on the grounds of expediency

5. a person who fits out motor vehicles

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Etymology

Origin of trimmer

First recorded in 1510–20; trim + -er ¹

Example Sentences

CEO Chuck Robbins told analysts Cisco’s technology is “more relevant than ever,” and a trimmer workforce frees resources for optics, silicon, and AI.

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

When she refuses, Spears grabs the trimmer and clicks it on: “The extensions are hacked into lifeless scraps … the stray hairs curl on the floor like writhing snakes.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2025

Men with enormous beards that have never known the touch of a trimmer.

From Salon • Aug. 7, 2024

In my own yard, I have used a battery-driven lawnmower, blower and string trimmer for nearly five years.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 18, 2023

Her figure faults were gone, the too bony elbow having fleshed out nicely; the opposite pudgy wrist could not have been trimmer.

From "The Princess Bride" by William Goldman

Related Words

• mower