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

Regular washing removes allergens, germs, and buildup from skin, dust, and pet hair. — Sheila Kim, The Spruce, 18 Sep. 2026

The plan includes a multistory train shed, a train washing facility and other storage areas. — Brian J. Rogal, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2026

Bricks of cocaine and bales of marijuana washing up in the Florida Keys or being found out at sea is a lot more common than people may think. — David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 17 Sep. 2026

The bar team will also lean on culinary techniques like sous vide and fat washing; expect a Provencal Dirty Martini and a Cucumber Sour. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 17 Sep. 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