n.
Function: transitive verb
Date: 14th century
1 a : to cut off the end of a body part of specifically : to remove part of the tail of b : to cut (as ears or a tail) short
2 a : to take away a part of : ABRIDGE b : to subject (as wages) to a deduction c : to penalize by depriving of a benefit ordinarily due especially : to fine by a deduction of wages < dock ed him for tardiness>