VocabDictionary

slim

/slɪm/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

(Of a person or their build) gracefully thin; slender.

Example Sentences:
  • She maintained a slim figure through regular exercise and a healthy diet.
  • He wore a tailored suit that complemented his slim frame.
2.adjective

(Of a thing) small in width relative to length; thin.

Example Sentences:
  • The new smartphone has a remarkably slim profile.
  • He pulled a slim volume of poetry from his bookshelf.
3.adjective

Very small; meager or remote.

Example Sentences:
  • The team has a slim chance of winning the championship now.
  • There is only a slim possibility that the train will arrive on time.
4.verb

To make oneself thinner or reduce in size, typically by dieting and exercise.

Example Sentences:
  • She joined a gym to slim down before the summer vacation.
  • Cutting out sugary drinks is an easy way to slim.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “slim”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originating in the late 16th century (originally in the sense 'worthless, crafty'), the word comes from Germanic languages, related to Dutch 'slim' (meaning 'bad, sly, or cunning') and German 'schlimm' (meaning 'bad'). Over time, the meaning shifted in English through 'slight of build' to denote a gracefully thin or slender physique.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone who is 'S-L-I-M' sliding easily through a 'S-L-I-T' in a narrow fence.

Common Collocations & Phrases
Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “slim

1. What is the meaning of “slim” in English?

In English, slim (adjective) is defined as: “(Of a person or their build) gracefully thin; slender.”.

2. How do you use “slim” in a sentence?

She maintained a slim figure through regular exercise and a healthy diet.

3. What are English synonyms of “slim”?

Common synonyms include:slender,thin,lean,slight,narrow

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “slim”?

Originating in the late 16th century (originally in the sense 'worthless, crafty'), the word comes from Germanic languages, related to Dutch 'slim' (meaning 'bad, sly, or cunning') and German 'schlimm' (meaning 'bad'). Over time, the meaning shifted in English through 'slight of build' to denote a gracefully thin or slender physique.