This denominative verb means to cut off branches, specifically the crown or top of a tree. Isaiah uses it in a powerful oracle against Assyria, declaring that the Lord himself will lop off the lofty boughs with terrifying force. The image depicts God as forester cutting down the proud forest of Assyria's military might. The intensive Piel stem emphasizes the vigor and completeness of the cutting action. This is the only biblical occurrence of the verb.