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

According to makeup artist Troy Surratt—whose line of highly covetable brushes are based on principles learned in the calligraphy brush mecca of Kumano, Japan—the only way to keep brushes free from bacteria, dust, and dirt is with a weekly washing. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 Mar. 2025

Featuring a blend of fragrant botanical oils and skin-loving emollients, this quality formula offers lasting hydration to your hands and cuticles and helps keep them protected from day-to-day aggressors such as frequent hand washing, changes in the weather and air conditioning. —Denise Primbet, Glamour, 5 Mar. 2025

Some argue that excessive washing strips natural oils, while others insist regular cleansing is necessary for scalp health. —Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025

Even a pope’s clothes need making, mending and washing. —Joelle Rollo-Koster, The Conversation, 25 Feb. 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