PRUNE Synonyms: 25 Similar and Opposite Words

prune

verb

Definition of prune

as in to shave

to make (something) shorter or smaller with the use of a cutting instrument pruned the dead branches from the old apple tree

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of prune Make sure to prune occasionally to remove any damaged or crowded branches. — Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 26 Aug. 2026 The shares are down more than 55% this year, and the global auto giant faces mounting pressure for radical action to counter Chinese competition, repair the damage from costly electric-vehicle missteps and prune an unwieldy stable of brands. — Neil Winton, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026 Most perennials require some pruning to maintain the plants’ shape, promote blooming, and keep them healthy. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 19 Aug. 2026 Finally, the open bowl structure eases maintenance of peach trees, from pruning and harvesting to pest management, by putting the branches within reach. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prune

Recent Examples of Synonyms for prune

Verb

One of Goldman’s models suggests that Korea’s fast aging population could shave as much as 25 basis points from annual consumption growth over the next decade.

— Mia Osmonbekov, Fortune, 30 Aug. 2026
Luckily, Atlanta is home to a wider world of frozen desserts, from Indonesian shaved ice to Mexican popsicles.

— Lia Picard - For the AJC, AJC.com, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of shave

Verb

The threat of shortages pushed countries across Asia to impose export bans, cut import duties, and start rationing fuel to maintain supplies.

— Katie Silver, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026
Unlike the heavy smoky eyes and cut creases of the 2010s, this trend is throwing it back to the 1990s when smoky eyes were more minimalist.

— Elle Turner, Glamour, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of cut

Verb

Consequently, markets have already trimmed their Fed rate hike expectations.

— , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
Drapery panels in Jim Thompson’s Choisya, trimmed in Samuel & Sons, frame the couple’s vintage breakfront, which keeps Khouri’s Royal Crown Derby china within reach.

— Caroline Randall Williams, Architectural Digest, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of trim

Verb

As with tarping, mow ragweed plants down first, moisten the soil with your hose, anchor the plastic sheeting over the soil with rocks or landscape staples, and leave the sheeting in place for 4 to 6 weeks during hot weather.

— Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 30 Aug. 2026
However, while mowing and aerating may be top-of-mind, top dressing isn’t always a go-to task on the lawn care checklist.

— Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of mow

Browse Nearby Words

prudishness

prune

pruned

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“Prune.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prune. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of prune

verb

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