retrench

verb re·trench \ri-ˈtrench\

: to change the way things are done in order to spend less money

Full Definition of RETRENCH

transitive verb

a : cut down, reduce

b : to cut out : excise

: to pare away : remove

intransitive verb

: to make retrenchments; specifically : economize

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Origin of RETRENCH

obsolete French retrencher (now retrancher), from Middle French retrenchier, from re- + trenchier to cut

First Known Use: 1596

Synonym Discussion of RETRENCH

shorten, curtail, abbreviate, abridge, retrench mean to reduce in extent. shorten implies reduction in length or duration <shorten a speech>. curtail adds an implication of cutting that in some way deprives of completeness or adequacy <ceremonies curtailed because of rain>. abbreviate implies a making shorter usually by omitting some part <using an abbreviated title>. abridge implies a reduction in compass or scope with retention of essential elements and a relative completeness in the result <the abridged version of the novel>. retrench suggests a reduction in extent or costs of something felt to be excessive <declining business forced the company to retrench>.

Rhymes with RETRENCH

backbench, entrench, front bench, King's Bench, Old French, pipe wrench, Queen's Bench, slit trench, unclench, workbench

Learn More About RETRENCH

Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "retrench"

Nglish: Translation of "retrench" for Spanish speakers

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