whitening

1 of 2

noun

whit·​en·​ing ˈ(h)wīt-niŋ 

-ᵊn-iŋ

1

: the act or process of making or becoming white

2

: something that is used to make white : whiting

whitening

2 of 2

present participle of whiten

Examples of whitening in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The Best Uses for Chlorine Bleach Chlorine bleach is best for situations that require serious disinfecting or whitening. — Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 16 Aug. 2026

Kumar said the lining of the mouth responds to physical irritation by thickening and whitening. — Callie Teitelbaum, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026

Many modern cruise lines now offer services like Botox, IV therapy and teeth whitening. — Nathan Diller, USA Today, 28 June 2026

What’s the best teeth whitening toothpaste? — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for whitening

• brightening
• frightening
• heightening
• lightening
• tightening
• enlightening