tumble-dry

American  

[tuhm-buhl-drahy] / ˈtʌm bəlˈdraɪ /

verb (used with object)

tumble-dried, tumble-drying

1. to dry (washing) in a clothes drier in which articles are rotated vertically through heated air.

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tumble-dry British  

verb

1. (tr) to dry (laundry) in a tumble dryer

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Etymology

Origin of tumble-dry

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Don’t use fabric softener or bleach, which will damage the fibers, and tumble-dry on low.

From Washington Post • Jun. 7, 2022

One good tip is to always wash and tumble-dry all lettuces, greens, and fresh herbs right away and store them in airtight containers with a piece of paper towel to absorb condensation.

From Slate • Jul. 18, 2018

While most U.S. dryers use tumble-dry technology that vents excess heat and moisture outside, this ventless option condenses moisture from the drum and returns the excess heat energy.

From National Geographic • Nov. 21, 2015