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

In addition to streamlining herbicide application, the legislation would promote education about invasive propagation with signs at boat launches and instruct DEEP to develop a plant to install boat washing stations at state boat ramps. —Edmund H. Mahony, Hartford Courant, 14 Mar. 2026

Before washing, test for colorfastness in an inconspicuous area to avoid any potential damage. —Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2026

An employee wiped his face and, without washing hands, handled multiple containers in the reach-in cooler. —David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 13 Mar. 2026

Choose layers that are easy to assemble and care for—ideally with washing instructions that fit your routine. —Shivani Vyas, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Mar. 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