washer

noun

wash·​er ˈwȯ-shər How to pronounce washer (audio)
ˈwä-
1
: a flat thin ring or a perforated plate used in joints or assemblies to ensure tightness, prevent leakage, or relieve friction
2
: one that washes
especially : washing machine

Examples of washer in a Sentence

We bought a new washer and dryer.
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.
Elevate Your Machines Elevating your washer and dryer with the help of pedestals offers extra storage space for pull-out drawers below. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Apr. 2026 The bathroom is accessed from the kitchen via a pocket door and contains a shower (with a curtain or optional glass enclosure), a sink, and a choice of flushing, composting, or incinerating toilet, plus a washer/dryer. Adam Williams april 25, New Atlas, 25 Apr. 2026 Nearby, John Cily passed the time playing washers with an old lacrosse teammate from Essex Community College, a nod to his Northeast Philadelphia roots. Michael Howes, Baltimore Sun, 25 Apr. 2026 For white or color-fast sheets, add one-half cup of chlorine bleach to a standard washer or one-fourth cup to a high-efficiency washer in the bleach dispenser in addition to a high-quality laundry detergent. Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 25 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for washer

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of washer was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Washer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/washer. Accessed 29 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

washer

noun
wash·​er ˈwȯsh-ər How to pronounce washer (audio)
ˈwäsh-
1
: a ring (as of metal) used to make something fit tightly or to prevent rubbing
2
: one that washes
especially : washing machine

More from Merriam-Webster on washer

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster