trimmings
Definition
Noun 1. The accessories or extras that accompany or decorate something, especially to make it complete or more attractive. This refers to the additional items that are traditionally or typically served with a main dish, or the decorative items added to something like a tree or outfit. 2. The act or result of cutting something to make it neat or to the desired size and shape. This is the less common meaning, directly related to the verb 'to trim'.
Examples of Usage
As accompanying items (most common):
- We had a traditional Thanksgiving turkey with all the trimmings: gravy, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes.
- She decorated the gift with ribbons and other festive trimmings.
- The package included the basic software and all the necessary trimmings for professional use.
As the result of cutting (less common):
- The trimmings from the hedge were collected in a bag.
- He saved the fabric trimmings for a future craft project.
Advanced Usage
- "With all the trimmings": This is a fixed phrase meaning "with everything that traditionally accompanies it," used most often for meals but applicable to other contexts.
- They celebrated with a wedding cake with all the trimmings.
Variants and Related Words
- Trim (verb): To make something neat by cutting away irregular or unwanted parts; to decorate or adorn.
- He trimmed the bushes. She trimmed the dress with lace.
- Trim (noun/adjective): Neat and smart in appearance; ornamentation or decoration.
- He keeps his garden in good trim. The car has a leather trim.
Synonyms
- Accompaniments
- Fixings (chiefly US)
- Garnishes
- Extras
- Accessories
- Embellishments
Related Phrases
- All the trimmings: The complete set of traditional accompaniments or decorations.
- For Christmas dinner, we always have roast beef and all the trimmings.
Noun
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the accessories that normally accompany (something or some activity)
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an elaborate formal dinner with all the fixings
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he bought a Christmas tree and trimmings to decorate it
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