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

Some feel washing removes bacteria or the liquids inside the packaging, while others follow cultural expectations that meat should be cleaned with water before use. —Aliss Higham, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2025

The clinic provides clear instructions about sleeping position, washing, sun protection and physical activity. —Wyles Daniel, Freep.com, 25 Nov. 2025

To prevent the illness from spreading, health officials also recommend washing hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick. —Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 25 Nov. 2025

The all-season comforter is quilted to keep the fill evenly distributed, ensuring consistent warmth and uniform coverage even after washing. —Jacquelyn McGilvray, PEOPLE, 24 Nov. 2025

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