washing

1 of 2

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

washing

2 of 2

present participle of wash entry 1

Examples of washing in a Sentence

Noun 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.
Noun
Another employee put on a pair of gloves and grabbed a bagel to prepare a customer order without first washing hands. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 4 Sep. 2026 An employee skipped the sanitizing part of ware washing of several bowls used from the cook’s line. — Sacbee.com, 4 Sep. 2026 Confirm the clinical fee includes local anesthesia, medicines and initial washing. — Malana Vantyler, Kansas City Star, 2 Sep. 2026 Left unchecked, mold and mildew can persist on fabrics even after washing, spreading a musty odor through an entire load. — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for washing

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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 5 Sep. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about washing

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