Definition
Adjusted using the airplane's trim system so that the control surfaces hold a desired flight attitude or airspeed without the pilot needing to apply continuous pressure on the controls.
Plain English
The airplane has been set up so it stays in the attitude or speed the pilot wants on its own, without the pilot having to push or pull on the controls to hold it there.
Context Anchor
Used during straight-and-level flight, climbs, descents, and any time the pilot reduces the need to hold constant pressure on the yoke or stick.
Derivation
From the nautical term 'to trim,' meaning to adjust a ship's sails or balance for steady sailing. In aviation it carries the same idea: making small adjustments so the aircraft holds its attitude steadily on its own.
Why Pilots Care
A properly trimmed airplane reduces pilot workload, prevents fatigue, and supports precise, stable flight especially during instrument conditions or long straight legs.
Intuition Check
Trimmed does not mean decorated or simply neat here. It means adjusted so the airplane does not require constant hand pressure to keep the desired flight condition.
Example Sentence 1
Once established in the climb, the pilot trimmed the airplane so it held the climb attitude without forward or back pressure on the yoke.
Example Sentence 2
During the level-off from climb, the student trimmed the airplane so the nose stayed level without further back pressure.