shim

noun

Pronunciation: /ʃɪm/

Definition

A thin, tapered piece of material used to fill a small gap or level a surface.

Examples

• He used a metal shim to align the heavy machinery on the uneven floor.

• The door wouldn't latch properly until we added a shim behind the hinge.

• Shims are essential for ensuring that window frames sit perfectly square.

How to Use shim

shim something up (phrasal verb)

To raise or level an object by inserting a thin piece. — "We had to shim the desk up by a few millimeters."

shim with (collocation)

To use a specific material as a shim. — "The technician shimmed the gap with a thin piece of brass."

Synonyms of shim

Words with a similar meaning to shim:

• wedge
• spacer
• filler
• chock

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