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verb Uncommon

streamline

STREEM-lyn

Streamline (verb) means to make a process simpler and more efficient by removing unnecessary steps. Example: “The new software streamlined the entire ordering process.”

verb
1
To make a process simpler and more efficient by removing unnecessary steps.
"The new software streamlined the entire ordering process."
2
To shape an object so it moves through air or water with minimal resistance.
"Engineers streamlined the car's body to improve fuel efficiency."

How to Use Streamline

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo make something smoother or more efficient, whether that's a physical shape moving through air, or a process cutting out wasted steps.

Common pairings
streamline the process streamline operations

Word Forms

streamlined past tense, streamlines plural, streamlines singular

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Test yourself on “streamline” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The new software _____ the entire ordering process.

Etymology

From "stream" plus "line" — originally a technical term describing the path a fluid particle follows.

Antonyms

destreamline

Rhymes for streamline

See all rhymes for streamline →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “streamline” mean?

The word “streamline” means to make a process simpler and more efficient by removing unnecessary steps. In plain terms, to make something smoother or more efficient, whether that's a physical shape moving through air, or a process cutting out wasted steps.

How do you pronounce “streamline”?

“Streamline” is pronounced STREEM-lyn (/ˈstriːmlaɪn/ in IPA).

How do you use “streamline” in a sentence?

Here is “streamline” used in a sentence: “The new software streamlined the entire ordering process.”

What is the opposite of “streamline”?

The opposite of “streamline” — its antonyms — is destreamline.

What part of speech is “streamline”?

“Streamline” is a verb.

Is “streamline” a common word?

“Streamline” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “streamline” have?

“Streamline” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make a process simpler and more efficient by removing unnecessary steps.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial