trimming

[trim-ing]

noun

1. anything used or serving to decorate or complete.

   the trimmings of a Christmas tree.

2. Usually trimmings an accompaniment or garnish to a main dish.

   roast turkey with all the trimmings.

3. trimmings, pieces cut off in trimming, clipping, paring, or pruning.

4. the act of a person or thing that trims.

5. Informal.,  a beating or thrashing.

6. Informal.,  a defeat.

   Our team took quite a trimming.

trimming

/ ˈtrɪmɪŋ /

noun

1. an extra piece used to decorate or complete

2. (plural) usual or traditional accompaniments

   roast turkey with all the trimmings

3. (plural) parts that are cut off

4. dialect,  (plural) ornaments; decorations

   Christmas trimmings

5. informal,  a reproof, beating, or defeat

Word History and Origins

Origin of trimming¹

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

Example Sentences

The residents in West Altadena questioned why the street wasn’t lined with “No Parking” signs typically in place during tree trimmings and why they weren’t notified about the work.

From Los Angeles Times

Some customers have pointed out that even as Edison has charged more for tree trimming and equipment upgrades meant to make its system safer and more reliable, its electric lines continue to spark fires.

From Los Angeles Times

The government views this as a game changer in reducing carbon emissions and trimming oil imports.

From BBC

The district’s footprint could shrink and shift closer to Sacramento, adding more registered Democrats and trimming off some conservative and rural areas.

From Los Angeles Times

Since the fund was created, electric customers have also paid $27 billion for tree trimming and other work aimed to prevent wildfires, which is fast driving up electric bills, Toney said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• decoration 
• frill 
• ornamentation