virgation

/ˈvɜːrdʒeɪʃən/

Definitions

1. noun

A small branch or twig, especially one that has been cut or broken off from a tree.

“The gardener carefully removed the virgation from the rose bush to encourage new growth.”

2. verb

To remove or cut off a small branch or twig, especially from a tree.

“The farmer virgated the dead branches from the apple tree to promote healthy growth.”

Synonyms

  • lopping
  • pruning
  • trimming

Antonyms

  • growth
  • proliferation