tanning

noun

tan·​ning ˈta-niŋ 

1

: a browning of the skin especially by exposure to sun

2

: the art or process by which a skin is tanned

3

: a sound spanking

4

: a natural darkening and hardening of the cuticle of an insect immediately after molting

Examples of tanning in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Initially, a portion of the bridesmaids complied to the demand without complaint and went to their local tanning salon. —Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 2 Oct. 2025

Mauro Bergozza, president of Simac Tanning Tech, Italy’s consortium for machinery and technology for the footwear, leather goods and tanning industries, underscored the importance of collaboration. —Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2025

In the fourth quarter of this year, goGLOW will open, specializing in skincare and sunless tanning services. —Jessica Alvarado Gamez, Denver Post, 18 Sep. 2025

The show quickly gained a massive following, showcasing the glamorous side of the tanning industry and Southern California lifestyle. —Devin Haman, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing tanning

• tanning bed
• tanning booth

Rhymes for tanning

• panning
• planing
• planning
• scanning
• spanning
• preplanning
• replanning
• scintiscanning

Kids Definition

tanning

noun

tan·​ning

ˈtan-iŋ

1

: the art or process by which an animal skin is tanned

2

: a browning of the skin especially by exposure to the sun

3

: a usually severe whipping

Medical Definition

tanning

noun

tan·​ning ˈtan-iŋ 

: a browning of the skin by exposure to sun