tanning

noun

tan·​ning ˈta-niŋ How to pronounce tanning (audio)
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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The gas is typically used in oil and gas refining, mining, tanning and paper processing. Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY, 11 Oct. 2024 Even artificial tanning methods, like tanning beds or spray tans, can leave you vulnerable to UV exposure. Katie Liu, Discover Magazine, 7 Oct. 2024 Why do brands sell tanning accelerators despite the risks of tanning? Tori Crowther, refinery29.com, 21 May 2024 Here She’s definitely changed up her style and looks in each era of her music career, as well as the intensity of her tanning and makeup. Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 30 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for tanning 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of tanning was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near tanning

Cite this Entry

“Tanning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tanning. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.

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 How to pronounce tanning (audio)
: a browning of the skin by exposure to sun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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