air-dry

1 of 2

adjective

: dry to such a degree that no further moisture is given up on exposure to air

air-dry

2 of 2

verb

air-dried; air-drying; air-dries

transitive verb

: to dry by exposure to air

intransitive verb

: to become dry by exposure to air

Examples of air-dry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Applying a nourishing air-dry cream or leave-in conditioner is key to protecting strands and preventing frizz, especially if your hair tends to tangle easily. Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 11 July 2025 The all-in-one smart dock can auto-empty the vacuum for up to seven weeks and wash and air-dry the mop pads, too. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 10 July 2025
Verb
Be sure to air-dry the topper before making your bed. Women's Health, 23 Feb. 2023 The piece consists of 38 small sculptures, each on its own shelf, each sculpted out of air-dry clay. Robert Boyd, Chron, 22 Feb. 2023 See All Example Sentences for air-dry

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1846, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1799, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of air-dry was in 1799

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Cite this Entry

“Air-dry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/air-dry. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

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