rim
5 synonyms and 0 antonyms for rim, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The outer edge of something round, like a cup, wheel, or basketball hoop.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use rim
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English rima, meaning an edge, border, or coastline.
Full origin of rim →Frequently asked questions
What does “rim” mean?
The word “rim” means the outer edge of something round, like a cup, wheel, or basketball hoop. In plain terms, the border or outer ring around something circular.
How do you pronounce “rim”?
“Rim” is pronounced RIHM (/ˈɹʷɪm/ in IPA).
How do you use “rim” in a sentence?
Here is “rim” used in a sentence: “Coffee stained the rim of the mug.”
What part of speech is “rim”?
“Rim” is a noun.
Where does the word “rim” come from?
The word “rim” comes from Old English. From Old English rima, meaning an edge, border, or coastline.
Is “rim” a common word?
“Rim” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “rim” have?
“Rim” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the outer edge of something round, like a cup, wheel, or basketball hoop.
What is the difference between a rim and a wheel?
A rim is the metal wheel that a tire is mounted on, while a wheel is the complete assembly, including the rim, tire, and other components. The rim is just one part of the whole wheel.
What is the difference between rim and edge?
A rim specifically refers to the outer edge of something round, such as a cup, wheel, or basketball hoop. Edge is a more general term that can describe the border of any shape, not just round objects.
What does "rim" mean in basketball?
In basketball, the rim refers to the metal ring of the basketball hoop, which is the outer edge players aim the ball through. This use follows directly from the general meaning of rim as the outer edge of something round.