prune, verb, /ˈpruːn/
1 (also prune something ↔︎ back)
to cut off some of the branches of a tree or bush to make it grow better.
to cut off some of the branches of (a tree or bush) so that it will grow better or look better.
The roses need pruning.
She carefully pruned the hedge.
Those trees need to be pruned every year.
You should prune back the unwanted branches.
The bushes need pruning.
2
(especially British English) to make something smaller by removing parts that you do not need or want.
to reduce (something) by removing parts that are not necessary or wanted.
The company is pruning staff in order to reduce costs.
The original version of the text has been pruned quite a bit.
The students were asked to prune their essays.
The budget needs to be pruned.
prune, noun, /ˈpruːn/
a dried plum, often cooked before it is eaten.
a dried plum that is often cooked before it is eaten.
stewed prunes.
prune juice.
