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

While most cotton and flannel fabrics are machine-washable, silk and satin fabrics may require professional cleaning or hand-washing. —John Monaco, InStyle, 7 Feb. 2026

The property includes equestrian facilities with four stalls, two arenas, tack and storage room, washing area and grazing areas. —Sara B. Hansen, Denver Post, 7 Feb. 2026

This includes all water - water for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth, and food preparation. —Patrick Damp, CBS News, 7 Feb. 2026

Regular washing helps keep the bathroom sanitary. —Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 6 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