Thinning - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Thinning refers to the process of making something less dense or crowded by removing parts, such as reducing the number of plants in a garden or hair on the scalp. It can also describe becoming gradually weaker or sparser.
Definition:
Becoming less dense or numerous; reducing in thickness or number.
Synonyms:
reducing, decreasing, diminishing, tapering
Part of Speech:
noun, verb (present participle)
Antonyms:
thickening, increasing
Common Collocations:
hair thinning, forest thinning, thinning scissors, thinning paint
Derivatives:
thinned, thinner
Usage Tips:
Use "thinning" to describe gradual reduction in density, like hair or crowds; avoid for sudden decreases.
Common Phrases:
thinning the herd, thinning out the ranks
Etymology:
From Old English "þynnian," meaning to make thin or less dense; related to "thin."
Examples:
- 1. The trees are thinning as we climb higher.
- 2. Her hair is thinning due to stress.
- 3. They are thinning the seedlings to help them grow stronger.
- 4. The crowd began thinning after the concert ended.