washable

1 of 2

adjective

wash·​able ˈwȯ-shə-bəl How to pronounce washable (audio)
ˈwä-
: capable of being washed without damage
washability
ˌwȯ-shə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce washable (audio)
ˌwä-
noun

washability

2 of 2

noun

wash·​abil·​i·​ty ˌwȯshəˈbilətē How to pronounce washability (audio)
ˌwäsh-, 
ˌwȯish-
: the quality or state of being washable

Examples of washable 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
These washable fabric patches can be applied by peeling and sticking to instantly cover stains and personalize clothing, no sewing or ironing needed. — Time Staff, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 The machine-washable sneakers have a soft, suede-like finish and bouncy foam insoles for extra cushioning. — Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 30 Sep. 2026 Its Omnicyclone station uses bagless cyclonic separation to empty the vacuum's dustbin directly into a washable container, eliminating the need for recurring dustbag purchases. — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 29 Sep. 2026 Most wool rugs aren't machine washable, though a few low-pile washable rugs are made in wool, including Revival's Helen above and this flatweave from Fable Home. — Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 26 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for washable

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1821, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of washable was in 1821

Phrases Containing washable

Browse Nearby Words

washability
washable
wash-and-wear
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Washable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/washable. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

washable

adjective
wash·​able ˈwȯsh-ə-bəl How to pronounce washable (audio)
ˈwäsh-
: capable of being washed without damage
a washable silk
washability
ˌwȯsh-ə-ˈbil-ət-ē How to pronounce washable (audio)
ˌwäsh-
noun

Medical Definition

washable

adjective
wash·​able ˈwȯsh-ə-bəl How to pronounce washable (audio)
1
: capable of being washed without damage
2
: soluble in water
washable ointment bases
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