detailing

noun

de·​tail·​ing ˈdē-ˌtāl-iŋ 

: the act, process, or result of detailing something: such as

a

: small design elements

It's subtle, like detailing on an expensive suit.

—Patricia Leigh Brown

About a thousand people are crammed into the Cabaret Metro, a funky old theater with a balcony overlooking a ballroom floor and a grand stage trimmed with wedding-cake detailing.

—Doug Simmons

The unsophisticated nature of the detailing and construction indicates that these chairs were made by an untrained craftsman, but over-all they suggest an awareness of high style furniture.

—Page Talbott

b

: the reporting or recounting of details in describing something

… a bit too much detailing of Strauss's marital relations …

—Judith Crist

The above is not a precise detailing of the Japanese consensus; public opinion varies widely, …

—Paul Blustein

Peccavi is billed as "a haven for the health-conscious gourmet," but I found the detailing of calories per dish and the abstemiousness of even the salads to be the sort of penance I'd rather not repeat.

—Andy Birsh

c

: the meticulous cleaning and refurbishing of an automobile

While some owners prefer to clean their own vehicle, a complete auto detailing may be worth the cost, especially when done by professionals.

—Doug Bonderud

Examples of detailing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It’s lined with a fuzzy wool blend that will keep your feet warm and cozy while commuting to work or window shopping in the cold, and its fluffy sheepskin detailing adds a touch of fashionable flair. —Averi Baudler, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024

The silhouette was structured in two pieces, including a black form-fitting, sleeveless moment with subtle ruche detailing. —Nick Hall, WWD, 25 Oct. 2024

The design has blue and metallic silver detailing, and Thompson's signature at the bottom. —Tasha Tsiaperas, Axios, 22 Oct. 2024

The vibe is a perfect blend of rustic charm (think: plank ceilings, reclaimed wood, and stone detailing) and modern amenities (Blackstone barbecue, stainless steel appliances, and smart TVs). —Kristi Kellogg, Architectural Digest, 21 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above