wash down

verb

washed down; washing down; washes down

transitive verb

1
: to move or carry downward by action of a liquid
especially : to facilitate the passage of (food) down the gullet with accompanying swallows of liquid
pizza washed down with beer
2
: to wash the whole length or extent of
washed down and scrubbed the front porch

Examples of wash down 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.
Blue-blacks and brown-blacks add subtle variations to basic black denim, especially when the fabrics are washed down. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 20 Oct. 2025 However, aboard the ISS, for example, the food seems less like some futuristic lab experiment and more like a succession of box lunches washed down with lukewarm coffee. David Szondy october 19, New Atlas, 19 Oct. 2025 Lee especially recommends the famous Blarney Burger, chicken wings, and club sandwich—best washed down with a cold draft beer. Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2025 Options include the original Wendy’s Signature creamy sauce with just a hint of spiciness, sweet chili, and a Scorchin’ Hot, perfect for washing down with a Frosty. Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wash down

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of wash down was in 1600

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Cite this Entry

“Wash down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wash%20down. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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