carving

noun

carv·​ing ˈkär-viŋ How to pronounce carving (audio)
Synonyms of carvingnext
1
: the act or art of one who carves
2
: a carved object, design, or figure

Examples of carving in a Sentence

She bought a small wooden carving of a Buddha. an ancient people proficient in stone carving
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.
On the walls, some embossed with seashells, are moon carvings and brass suns, glossy lacquer minibars in baby blues and oxblood reds, and wonky puzzle piece doorknobs. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Mar. 2026 Consider pool parties in the summer, pumpkin carving or a corn maze in the fall, and sledding, tubing, or ice skating in the winter. Sherri Gordon, Parents, 11 Mar. 2026 Critics say the law attempts to do this carving with a cleaver. Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 9 Mar. 2026 The bridge notably features bas-relief carvings on its bridge houses. Adam Harrington, CBS News, 5 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for carving

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of carving was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Carving.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carving. Accessed 17 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

carving

noun
carv·​ing ˈkär-viŋ How to pronounce carving (audio)
1
: the act or art of a person who carves
2
: a carved object, design, or figure

More from Merriam-Webster on carving

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster