washing

1 of 2

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

washing

2 of 2

present participle of wash entry 1

Examples of washing in a Sentence

Noun

These shirts will look great even after repeated washings.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

One hand washing sink in food prep area is not working properly. — Nwa Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 19 Oct. 2026

That rinse-clean standard matters for anyone worried about buildup, since a scalp oil that lingers after washing can leave hair looking greasy rather than nourished. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 17 Oct. 2026

Karaduman added that its ability to retain shape can also reduce the need for frequent washing, potentially lowering water, chemical and energy consumption during the use phase of the garment. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026

The brush helps to gently detangle during washing, distribute treatments along the lengths, and stimulate the scalp to encourage healthy and strong strands. — Laura Sandroni, Vogue, 16 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing washing

• do the washing-up
• front load/front-load washing machine
• put the washing out
• top-loading washing machine
• 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