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
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The top is designed with horizontal pleated detailing and cap sleeves, while the bottoms offer a simple, wide-leg silhouette with side pockets and a drawstring to adjust the fit to your liking. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2026 In its hi-def detailing, The Moth flips the script, ensuring immediate and constant immersion. Joshua Minsoo Kim, Pitchfork, 13 Apr. 2026 Quince’s $154 Handwoven Satchel is similarly made from high-quality Italian leather and features intricate textured detailing. Megan Schaltegger, PEOPLE, 11 Apr. 2026 On her feet, Beyoncé rocked a pair of strappy, sheer heels with nude detailing. Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 11 Apr. 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 26 Apr. 2026.

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