What does slim mean?
Slim is an adjective describing something that is narrow, slender, or less bulky than expected. It can describe a person’s build, an object’s shape, or a small margin or chance, as in “a slim chance.” The related verb “slim down” means to reduce something in size, cost, or complexity, and is especially common in discussions of businesses, budgets, and organizations. Compared with “thin,” slim often suggests a graceful or streamlined form, though it can also imply an insufficiently large amount in phrases such as “slim margins.” Its uses are standard in British and American English, ranging from everyday descriptions to formal reporting.
Narrow or slender in shape; having little thickness, bulk, or width. Also, small in amount, extent, or degree.
"The tall figure cast a slim shadow across the floor."
In phrases such as “slim chance” and “slim margin,” the adjective means small in amount or degree, often with an implication that the amount is insufficient or difficult to achieve.
To make or become thinner, smaller, or less substantial, especially by reducing costs, staffing, or complexity.
"The department slimmed down its operations without reducing customer support."
The verb is commonly used intransitively with “down,” as in “slim down,” and is frequent in business, institutional, and budgetary contexts.
A slim margin can be so narrow that it is easy to overlook, which makes “slim” useful for describing both elegant shapes and dangerously small amounts.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slim come from?
The English word “slim” has an uncertain precise origin, and its relationship to similarly meaning words in other languages has been debated. By the modern period, it was established for narrow or slender forms and later developed figurative meanings involving reduced size or quantity. Its verb meaning developed from that adjective sense, particularly in phrases such as “slim down.”
Related word forms
How slim is actually used
When describing a person, “slim” is generally more approving than “thin,” although it can sound informal or appearance-focused. In business and institutional contexts, “slim down” commonly means reducing staff, costs, or operations.
Easily confused with slim
Slim usually describes a person or object as narrow or slender in shape, whereas thin more broadly describes something with little thickness, substance, or density.