slashing

1 of 2

adjective

slash·​ing ˈsla-shiŋ How to pronounce slashing (audio)
Synonyms of slashingnext
1
: incisively satiric or critical
2
: driving, pelting
3
: vivid, brilliant
slashingly adverb

slashing

2 of 2

noun

1
: the act or process of slashing
2
: an insert or layer of contrasting color revealed by a slash (as in a garment)
3
: slash entry 2 sense 3

Examples of slashing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Journalists at newspapers owned by Alden’s MediaNews Group have accused the hedge fund of slashing costs without regard for their work and solely as a way to increase profit margins. — Marc Tracy, New York Times, 27 Feb. 2020
Noun
Three of the other wolves appeared and swarmed over her, chopping and slashing. — Frank Glaser, Outdoor Life, 1 Apr. 2026 The slashings occurred as there were reports to police of shots being fired and the road being blocked. — Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for slashing

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of slashing was in 1576

Rhymes for slashing

See All Rhymes for slashing

Browse Nearby Words

slash grain
slashing
slash line
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Slashing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/slashing. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on slashing

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for slashing

Nglish: Translation of slashing for Spanish Speakers

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