Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Whittling it down to 10 contenders is no easy feat - you can have your say below.

From BBC • Mar. 3, 2026

Whittling away, I ended up barely touching the tip to my thumb.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 26, 2022

Whittling the ecological impact of buildings down to their electric bill makes a strong environmental case for new construction, which tends to have tighter fitting windows, central air conditioning, and other state-of-the-art systems.

From Slate • Dec. 6, 2021

Whittling and knife work really engage this age group.

From The Guardian • Apr. 4, 2020

Whittling some shavings from one of these, he soon had a brisk blaze that not only drove the black shadows to a respectful distance, but imparted a delicious warmth to his chilled body.

From The Copper Princess A Story of Lake Superior Mines by Rogers, W. A. (William Allen)