washing

noun

wash·​ing ˈwȯ-shiŋ How to pronounce washing (audio)
ˈwä-
1
: the act or action of one that cleanses with water
2
: material obtained by washing
3
: articles washed or to be washed : wash

Examples of washing in a Sentence

These shirts will look great even after repeated washings.
Recent Examples on the Web According to a paper published in the Journal of Cosmetic Chemists, Japanese court ladies of the Heian Period (between 794 and 1185) were said to comb Yu-Su-Ru, or water obtained from the washing of rice, through their hair daily, the better to tend to their floor-reaching lengths. Calin Van Paris, Vogue, 19 Nov. 2023 This is important for a down comforter that comes in colorways because there will not be a duvet to help avoid frequent washing. Andrea Wurzburger, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Nov. 2023 Note: Color development is not complete until after washing fabrics, which removes undeveloped dye. Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 3 Nov. 2023 And while this product is dishwasher safe, the discoloration did not improve after washing. Rennie Dyball, Peoplemag, 20 Oct. 2023 Over washing of your hair with the various chemicals in shampoo can dry out your hair too much so that your scalp may amp up the production of natural oils. Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes, 12 Nov. 2023 For this reason, many of the toys that come in boxes for toddlers and preschoolers are Montessori-inspired, designed to promote curiosity, self-confidence, organization, and practical life skills (like hand washing or age-appropriate chores). Simone Scully, Parents, 26 Oct. 2023 The formula is infused with aromatic essential oils that turn hand washing into a spa-like experience. Margaret Drake, Rolling Stone, 25 Oct. 2023 The foot sleeves are breathable and detachable for easy cleaning and washing, and a simple button on the massager controls everything, so there’s no remote needed. Amanda Ogle, Southern Living, 31 Oct. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'washing.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of washing was in the 13th century

Dictionary Entries Near washing

Cite this Entry

“Washing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/washing. Accessed 4 Dec. 2023.

Kids Definition

washing

noun
wash·​ing ˈwȯsh-iŋ How to pronounce washing (audio)
ˈwäsh-
: articles washed or to be washed
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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