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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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

Centering consumer protection In 2020, a ghost candidate scheme that helped unseat Rodriguez relied on paying candidates to run who had no plans to win but could shave votes from Democratic candidates.

— Romy Ellenbogen Herald, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2026
At 25, England cricketer Chris Lewis experienced an even more direct consequence after team-mate Devon Malcolm shaved his head during England’s 1994 West Indies tour to raise money for Children in Need.

— Amelie Claydon, New York Times, 25 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

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 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of prune

verb

Example Sentences

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