Definition
To carve wood, bone, or similar material by repeatedly cutting away small pieces with a knife; also means to gradually reduce something in size or amount through persistent small actions.
Example Usage
He whittled a small figure from a block of pine while sitting on the porch, lost in thought.
Origin
From Old English 'thwittan,' meaning 'to carve' or 'cut,' with roots in Germanic languages.
Fun Fact
Whittling is one of the oldest forms of folk art and has experienced a modern revival as a meditative hobby distinct from digital hobbies.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
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