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

Ragged towels can be cut into smaller pieces to be used for pet washing and scrubbing, while one or two can be left uncut to help with drying. —Rabekah Henderson, The Spruce, 27 Feb. 2026

In 1983, state officials found that scores of Miami Beach retirement hotels were operating as Adult Congregate Living Facilities (ACLFs) -- washing and dressing tenants, feeding them and handling their money, for example. —Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 27 Feb. 2026

But no amount of washing shower curtain liners trumps trading an old one for a new one, notes Rubino. —Lauren David, Southern Living, 27 Feb. 2026

Employees were observed washing pans in the preparation sink without sanitizing. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado, Sacbee.com, 27 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