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

Use a Power Washer Power washing is great for patios with relatively tight paver-spacing that have been neglected for years. —David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 16 May 2026

Larry got his first taste of the industry in high school, washing bottles and feeding calves at Miller’s Dairy for $35 a week. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 15 May 2026

To kill bacteria, use hot water for washing diapers and bed linens if someone is unwell. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 15 May 2026

In Monroe, officials remain under stage 1 voluntary conservation measures that encourage residents to shorten showers, limit outdoor watering and avoid washing driveways and sidewalks. —Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 15 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