whittling (down)

Definition of whittling (down)next
present participle of whittle (down)

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for whittling (down)
Verb
  • And cutting back on liquid sugars like juice and soda eliminates some of the sharpest spikes, since those drinks get absorbed rapidly.
    Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Consumers may react to higher gas prices by cutting back on their spending elsewhere in the economy, Hammack said, which could lead to weaker growth and layoffs, which the Fed would need to respond to with rate cuts.
    Christopher Rugaber, Los Angeles Times, 6 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Some also favor turning down the heat and simmering eggs.
    ABC News, ABC News, 2 Apr. 2026
  • But after turning down the 30-year payout, the winnings dropped to $57 million before taxes.
    Dave Lieber, Dallas Morning News, 19 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Carter added nine points in the third quarter by knocking down his second 3-pointer of the night from the top of the key.
    Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 Apr. 2026
  • Senior wing Taylor Bigby has helped pick up some of the scoring load with her breakout run, but to make the Final Four, TCU will need both guards knocking down shots to alleviate the pressure that is sure to come on Miles.
    Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Mar. 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Whittling (down).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/whittling%20%28down%29. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

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