spuntare
/spunˈta.re/
To trim is to say spuntare in Italian.
The verb spuntare is most commonly used when referring to trimming hair, beards or nails. Note that depending on the context and whether it is used transitively, spuntare can also mean to sprout or to appear. If you are talking about a moderate haircut as a noun, you can use spuntata (capelli-barba-baffi) or sforbiciata. If you mean 'fit' as an adjective, use in forma.
Meaning: to reduce slightly (verb)
Which one should you use?
For a formal context involving adding a final touch or finishing detail, use rifinire. If you are referring specifically to trimming the edges of fabric or creating a hem, use orlo. For an informal way to say trimming that specifically refers to snipping off small bits, use tagliuzzare.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
spuntare is a regular second-conjugation verb ending in -are.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /spunˈta.re/. It has three syllables, with the stress on the second syllable.
Did you know?
- In a linguistic twist, the verb spuntare functions as a contronym where it can mean both the act of removing a 'point' through trimming and the act of a point actually appearing, such as a plant budding.
- The verb spuntare shares a root with the word 'point' because it describes the action of shaping something toward its 'punta', or tip.
- The verb spuntare can describe the sun 'sprouting' from behind a cloud or the horizon, transitioning from a tool for grooming to a way to describe celestial emergence.
Examples in context
- Si può rifinire l'orlo di questa gonna?Can you trim the hem of this skirt?
- Mi puoi sfoltire i capelli, per favore?Can you trim my hair, please?
- Certo, vogliamo mantenere la lunghezza attuale o tagliare un po'?Sure, do you want to maintain the current length or cut it a bit?
- Devo spuntare le punte dei capelli.I need to trim the ends of my hair.
- Puoi spuntare un po' le foglie della pianta?Can you trim the leaves of the plant a little?
- Il barbiere deve spuntare la barba.The barber needs to trim the beard.
Example conversation
Francesco and Sofia are talking about their appearance before a party.
- FrancescoSofia, i tuoi capelli sono troppo lunghi.Sofia, your hair is too long.
- SofiaHai ragione, dovrei spuntare un po' di ciocche.You are right, I should trim a few locks.
- FrancescoVuoi che ti aiuti io?Do you want me to help you?
- SofiaNo, vado subito dal parrucchiere!No, I am going to the hairdresser right now!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry spuntare, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries spuntare, CC BY-SA 4.0.
