Taking into consideration how they [laws] are to be
pruned and reformed. --Bacon.
Our delightful task To prune these growing plants,
and tend these flowers. --Milton.
2. To cut off or cut out, as useless parts.
Horace will our superfluous branches prune.
--Waller.
3. To preen; to prepare; to dress. --Spenser.
His royal bird Prunes the immortal wing and cloys
his beak. --Shak.
2. (Falconry) That which is cast off by bird in pruning her
feathers; leavings. --Beau. & Fl.
{Pruning hook}, or {Pruning knife}, cutting instrument used
in pruning trees, etc.
{Pruning shears}, shears for pruning trees, vines, etc.