washing

noun

wash·​ing ˈwȯ-shiŋ 

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

Rather than being stripped of their parts, this term refers to vehicles that are driven off intact by thieves, either for joy-riding or title washing and illicit resale either here or abroad. —Jim Gorzelany, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025

Birdbath owners should be sure to rinse the baths thoroughly to make sure the bleach is gone after washing. —Austin Corona, AZCentral.com, 6 Aug. 2025

No paper towels or way to dry your hands at the washing area handwash sink. —David J. Neal august 1, Miami Herald, 1 Aug. 2025

For hand washing, Contorno recommends using mild dish soap and a non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristle brush. —Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 29 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing washing

• do the washing-up
• put the washing out
• washing machine
• washing powder
• washing soda
• washing-up liquid

Rhymes for washing

• quashing
• sloshing
• squashing
• brainwashing
• handwashing
• whitewashing

Kids Definition

washing

noun

wash·​ing ˈwȯsh-iŋ 

ˈwäsh-

: articles washed or to be washed