Definition of thin

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thin    (thn) KEY 

ADJECTIVE:
thin·ner, thin·nest

1. 1. Relatively small in extent from one surface to the opposite, usually in the smallest solid dimension: a thin book.
   2. Not great in diameter or cross section; fine: thin wire.
2. Lean or slender in form, build, or stature.
3. 1. Not dense or concentrated; sparse: the thin vegetation of the plateau.
   2. More rarefied than normal: thin air.
4. 1. Flowing with relative ease; not viscous: a thin oil.
   2. Watery: thin soup.
5. Sparsely supplied or provided; scanty: a thin menu; thin trading.
6. Lacking force or substance; flimsy: a thin attempt.
7. Lacking resonance or fullness; tinny: The piano had a thin sound.
8. Lacking radiance or intensity: thin light.
9. Not having enough photographic density or contrast to make satisfactory prints. Used of a negative.

ADVERB:

1. In a thin manner: Spread the varnish thin if you don't want it to wrinkle.
2. So as to be thin: Cut the cheese thin.

tr. & intr.v.
thinned, thin·ning, thins

To make or become thin or thinner.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old English thynne; see ten- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
thinly(Adverb), thinness(Noun), thinnish(Adjective)