detailing

noun

de·​tail·​ing ˈdē-ˌtāl-iŋ How to pronounce detailing (audio)
: 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.
First seen on supermodel Claudia Schiffer on the runway during the Chanel Haute Couture show in 1992 as part of Paris Fashion Week's spring/summer 1993 shows, the cream top features black trim and gold chain detailing. Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025 The references can be seen in pieces like the Double Face Cardigan with its graphic print inspired by peacock feathers and The Eye Opener jacket with its floral and vine detailing. Felicity Carter, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 There, Armstrong modelled one of the brand’s pieces, a sultry black dress with buckle detailing. Violet Goldstone, Footwear News, 5 Sep. 2025 Heidi's pale pink gown had off-the-shoulder sleeves and a corset with mesh panels partially covered by rush detailing. Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 28 Aug. 2025 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 10 Sep. 2025.

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