detailing

noun

de·​tail·​ing ˈdē-ˌtāl-iŋ How to pronounce detailing (audio)
Synonyms of detailingnext
: 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
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.
The top has a V-neck, short-sleeve design with two-button detailing and an above-the-ankle pant complete with a drawstring waist. Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 14 Jan. 2026 Gerber wore a plunging black wrap dress, while her mother opted for a glamorous black goddess top with gold detailing. Meg Walters, InStyle, 11 Jan. 2026 Floor-to-ceiling windows capped by 12-foot ceilings and European white oak floors in a custom honey stain accentuate those horizons, alongside mahogany millwork and bronze detailing. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 10 Jan. 2026 The rooms Rooms here are understated and simple, with dark wood detailing, unfussy bathroom setups—compact showers and no bathtubs, unfortunately—and comfy beds topped with dense, cozy duvets and cotton sheets. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for detailing

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of detailing was in 1866

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Cite this Entry

“Detailing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/detailing. Accessed 18 Jan. 2026.

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