prune

verb

Pronunciation: /pruːn/

Definition

Trim or cut away dead or overgrown branches from a plant to encourage healthy growth.

Examples

• You should prune the apple trees in late winter while they are still dormant.

• It is necessary to prune back the hedges every few months to keep the garden neat.

• If you prune the lavender correctly, it will produce a much fuller display of flowers.

How to Use prune

prune back (phrasal verb)

To cut a plant significantly to reduce its size. — "You should prune back the bushes before the winter frost arrives."

prune down (phrasal verb)

To reduce the size or number of something. — "We need to prune down the list of candidates to just three people."

Synonyms of prune

Words with a similar meaning to prune:

• cut
• trim
• lop
• pollard

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