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

Use anti-bacterial insoles that can be removed for washing or routine replacement. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 7 Jan. 2026

For larger stains or an overall dingy pillowcase, soak it in an oxygen bleach mixture before washing. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 Jan. 2026

Good hand washing also helps prevent the spread of infections. —Stephanie Stahl, CBS News, 7 Jan. 2026

In the past, these gas stations doubled as grocery stores and provided S & H green stamps and full auto service, like washing windows and checking motor oil and tire pressure. —Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 6 Jan. 2026

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