Definitions

1. noun

a plum tree or shrub, especially one grown for its fruit

“The garden was home to several prune trees.”

2. verb

to remove the ends of the branches of (a tree or shrub), typically to encourage new growth

“She pruned the dead branches from the rose bush.”

3. verb

to remove or cut off (parts of something), especially to make it smaller or more efficient

“The company pruned its staff to cut costs.”

4. verb

to cut or trim (hair) closely, especially for a particular style

“He pruned his beard to a short, neat shape.”

5. verb

to edit or revise (text) ruthlessly, removing unnecessary parts

“The editor pruned the novel to make it more concise.”