pare

[peə(r)]

pare Definition

  • 1to cut off the outer layer of something with a knife in order to make it smaller or smoother
  • 2to reduce something gradually

Using pare: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pare" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She pared the apple with a sharp knife.

  • Example

    He pared down his expenses to save money.

  • Example

    The company is looking to pare its workforce.

  • Example

    The chef pared the potatoes into thin slices.

pare Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for pare

Antonyms for pare

Phrases with pare

  • to reduce the size or amount of something

    Example

    The CEO is looking to pare down the company's expenses.

  • to reduce the size or amount of something, especially by cutting costs or staff

    Example

    The government is planning to pare back its spending on social programs.

  • to remove the outer layer of something with a knife or other tool

    Example

    The sculptor pared away at the block of marble until the figure emerged.

Origins of pare

from Old French 'parer', meaning 'to adorn, deck, trim'

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Summary: pare in Brief

The verb 'pare' [peə(r)] means to cut off the outer layer of something with a knife to make it smaller or smoother. It can also mean to gradually reduce something. Examples include 'She pared the apple with a sharp knife' and 'The company is looking to pare its workforce.' 'Pare' extends into phrases like 'pare down,' which means to reduce the size or amount of something.