To streamline something means to make it simpler, faster, or more efficient by removing unnecessary steps or complications. When a factory streamlines its production process, it might reorganize the assembly line so workers don't waste time walking back and forth, or eliminate forms that nobody really needs to fill out.

The word comes from the smooth, tapered shape that helps fish, submarines, and airplanes move through water or air with less resistance. A streamlined shape is sleek and purposeful, with nothing extra slowing it down. Engineers streamline vehicles to make them faster and more fuel-efficient.

You can streamline almost anything: a morning routine, a homework system, or the way your soccer team practices. If getting ready for school takes forever because you can't find your backpack, your lunch, and your homework each morning, you might streamline the process by packing everything the night before. Teachers sometimes streamline their grading by using rubrics instead of writing long comments on every assignment.

The goal of streamlining is to cut out what doesn't matter so you can focus your energy on what does, often making things faster in the process. A streamlined approach is clean, direct, and effective.