whitening

[ hwahyt-n-ing, wahyt- ]

noun

1. a preparation for making something white; whiting.
2. the act or process of making or turning white.

Word History and Origins

Origin of whitening¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; whiten + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

If you're undertaking a home whitening process, sparkling water might discolor your teeth.

From Salon

She says, "Like with most things in life, overuse or misuse can lead to unwanted side-effects. Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are some of the most common issues for example, so It's crucial to follow the instructions provided by the product and consult with a dentist before undergoing any teeth whitening treatment."

From Salon

And I'll regularly blow thirty to fifty bucks on some luminous dazzling effects home whitening kit, just to mitigate some of the effects my coffee and Malbec lifestyle.

From Salon

A 2022 analysis from Insight Partners estimates Americans spend over $6 billion per year on the home whitening market alone, including strips, gels, devices and specialized toothpastes.

From Salon

Now, a study published in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics examines a surprising part of this process: how tiny aquatic creatures known as phytoplankton play a big role in whitening Earth's clouds.

From Scientific American