What does slimmer mean?
Slimmer is the comparative form of slim, a standard English adjective meaning thin, slender, or not bulky. It describes something more narrow or slender than something else: a person may have a slimmer figure, while a designer may create a slimmer version of a product. The word is common in British and American English and can refer to physical appearance, shape, thickness, or an attractive streamlined form. Its comparison can be explicit, as in “the slimmer of the two,” or implied by the context. Because it is already a comparative form, it is not normally used with words such as more. In addition to its adjective use, slimmer can function as an adverb in phrases such as “fit slimmer,” describing the manner or degree of a slimmer fit.
More slim, slender, or less bulky than something else.
"He chose the slimmer model because it was easier to carry."
This is the comparative form of slim.
In a slimmer or less bulky manner.
"The jacket is cut slimmer than the original."
This use is less common and typically describes fit, design, or shape.
The word slimmer is a ready-made comparison: something that is slimmer is already the more slender of two possibilities.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slimmer come from?
Slimmer derives from the English adjective slim by adding the comparative suffix -er. The word slim comes through Middle English from Old English slim, meaning thin, slender, or meager. The suffix pattern reflected in slimmer is a regular feature of English comparative formation rather than a separate inherited root.
Related word forms
How slimmer is actually used
Slimmer is the comparative form of slim and is normally used with two things or in a comparison. It can describe a person’s build, an object’s shape, or a reduction in size or thickness.
Easily confused with slimmer
Slim is the base adjective, while slimmer is its comparative form and means more slim or slender.