washing

noun

wash·​ing ˈwȯ-shiŋ How to pronounce washing (audio)
ˈwä-
Synonyms of washingnext
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
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.
If this is an issue, try to warm your hands before washing and testing. — Karen Berger, Verywell Health, 30 June 2026 At the low end, a dog washing station is a hose, a spray nozzle and somewhere to clip the leash. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026 Even something as simple as packing your lunch, washing fruit, prepping overnight oats, or deciding what's for dinner the next day can help. — Lindsey Desoto, Health, 30 June 2026 The physical activity could be slow walking or a household chore such as ironing or washing dishes. — Adam England, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for washing

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of washing was in the 13th century

Phrases Containing washing

Rhymes for washing

See All Rhymes for washing

Browse Nearby Words

washiness
washing
washing bottle
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

washing

noun
wash·​ing ˈwȯsh-iŋ How to pronounce washing (audio)
ˈwäsh-
: articles washed or to be washed

More from Merriam-Webster on washing

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for washing

Nglish: Translation of washing for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about washing

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