detailing

noun

de·​tail·​ing ˈdē-ˌtāl-iŋ How to pronounce detailing (audio)
: the act, process, or result of detailing something: such as
a
: small design elements
It's subtle, like detailing on an expensive suit.Patricia Leigh Brown
About a thousand people are crammed into the Cabaret Metro, a funky old theater with a balcony overlooking a ballroom floor and a grand stage trimmed with wedding-cake detailing.Doug Simmons
The unsophisticated nature of the detailing and construction indicates that these chairs were made by an untrained craftsman, but over-all they suggest an awareness of high style furniture.Page Talbott
b
: the reporting or recounting of details in describing something
… a bit too much detailing of Strauss's marital relations …Judith Crist
The above is not a precise detailing of the Japanese consensus; public opinion varies widely, …Paul Blustein
Peccavi is billed as "a haven for the health-conscious gourmet," but I found the detailing of calories per dish and the abstemiousness of even the salads to be the sort of penance I'd rather not repeat.Andy Birsh
c
: the meticulous cleaning and refurbishing of an automobile
While some owners prefer to clean their own vehicle, a complete auto detailing may be worth the cost, especially when done by professionals.Doug Bonderud

Examples of detailing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Ryan Gosling Goes for Pink Diamonds in TAG Heuer To go with his custom Gucci black suit for the Oscars red carpet — which featured metallic detailing — Ryan Gosling accessorized with a highly special TAG Heuer watch that features pink diamonds (on the dial and on the crown). Degen Pener, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Mar. 2024 Here, the white dial is paired with black detailing and applied indexes, and the glossy lacquered finish is the first time such a technique has been used on the Moonwatch’s step dial. Tori Latham, Robb Report, 5 Mar. 2024 Additionally, it’s loaded with features like reflecting detailing and goggle pockets. Casey Clark, Parents, 5 Mar. 2024 The detailing is impressive as would be expected given the funding by the wealthy ship captains. Jeanine Barone, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024 Complete with multiple fully functional pockets and extra distressed detailing, these cargo pants offer both style and functionality. Jessica Copeland, Rolling Stone, 31 Jan. 2024 The 34-year-old forward is once again sporting what has become an iconic straightened fringe – however, this time swapping his Miami Heat uniform for a purple cowboy suit with gold detailing and gold boots. Thomas Schlachter, CNN, 29 Feb. 2024 Founded in 1755, the brand is renowned for both its simplicity and extraordinary detailing. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 28 Feb. 2024 The ensemble featured — a custom velvet minidress with rhinestone detailing that was crafted by runway designer Patricia Bonaldi — is now available exclusively for a limited time to Rakuten members, with 10% cash back, through March 11. Nicholas Rice, Peoplemag, 26 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'detailing.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of detailing was in 1866

Dictionary Entries Near detailing

Cite this Entry

“Detailing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/detailing. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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