to lop or cut off the superfluous parts, branches, or shoots of; to clear of useless material; to shape or smooth by trimming; to trim: as, to prune trees; to prune an essay.-to cut off or cut out, as useless parts.-to preen; to prepare; to dress.-to dress; to prink; -used humorously or in contempt.-a plum; esp., a dried plum, used in cookery; as, french or turkish prunes; california prunes.