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

Beyond adding shine, wax replaces the apple's natural protective cuticle, which is removed during commercial washing. —Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 21 Feb. 2026

In actuality, washing rice removes excess starch, dust, and debris to ultimately help the grains to be more separated and fluffy, rather than sticky. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 21 Feb. 2026

If there is a lot of sauce or oil, rinse the plates and serving dishes under hot water before washing. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 21 Feb. 2026

Employees of the market lacked food safety knowledge in proper ware washing, holding temperatures, test strip usage and proper handwashing. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado february 20, Sacbee.com, 20 Feb. 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