washing

noun

wash·​ing ˈwȯ-shiŋ 

ˈwä-

1

: the act or action of one that cleanses with water

2

: material obtained by washing

3

: articles washed or to be washed : wash

Examples of washing in a Sentence

These shirts will look great even after repeated washings.

Recent Examples on the Web

Seaweed and Closures Limit Beach Options Beachgoers across the region are encountering large amounts of sargassum seaweed washing ashore. —Abby Dodge, CBS News, 23 May 2026

Also, while hand-washing is recommended, it can be washed in a dishwasher, which is rare for Dutch ovens. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 20 May 2026

The areas around screws, vents, and rubber seals also trap moisture and grease, creating hidden grime that basic washing often misses. —Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 19 May 2026

Change and Wash Bed Linens Experts recommend changing and washing bedding on a weekly basis to maintain good hygiene and keep your bed fresh. —Mallory Carra, The Spruce, 18 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing washing

• do the washing-up
• put the washing out
• washing machine
• washing powder
• washing soda
• washing-up liquid

Rhymes for washing

• quashing
• sloshing
• squashing
• brainwashing
• handwashing
• whitewashing

Kids Definition

washing

noun

wash·​ing ˈwȯsh-iŋ 

ˈwäsh-

: articles washed or to be washed