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

Luckily, there are still ways to get in your favorite greens, whether via properly washing, cooking or swapping for frozen or canned alternatives. — Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 10 July 2026

Some of the ways a person can get infected is by drinking untreated water, washing or watering fresh produce with contaminated water, or swallowing contaminated water from swimming pools, hot tubs and lakes, according to Cleveland Clinic. — Michelle Marchante july 10, Miami Herald, 10 July 2026

The agency says people can prevent infection by thoroughly washing produce, cutting away bruised or damaged parts of fruits and vegetables and refrigerating pre-prepared or pre-cut produce. — Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 10 July 2026

Clean bowls, scoops and utensils after every use This one’s easy to forget, but the FDA recommends washing and drying all feeding accessories after each use. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 9 July 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