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

Maundy Thursday, or Holy Thursday, commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples, marking the institution of Holy Communion and the washing of feet, symbolizing humility and service, according to the Presbyterian Church. —Julia Gomez, USA Today, 29 Mar. 2026

Despite that, reports and images have been circulated by local media of dead turtles, eels and fish washing up on Mexican beaches and floating near shorelines. —Boston Herald Wire Services, Boston Herald, 28 Mar. 2026

An employee lacked knowledge of dish washing and sanitizing procedures. —Sacbee.com, 27 Mar. 2026

Choosing organic on the 12 highest-residue items, leaning into seasonal buying and washing produce correctly are small, actionable shifts — ones that reduce exposure without cutting back on the produce your body benefits from every day. —Allison Palmer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 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