washing

[ wosh-ing, waw-shing ]

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that washes; ablution.
2. clothes, linens, etc., washed or to be washed, especially those washed at one time; wash.
3. Often washings. any liquid that has been used to wash something.
4. matter removed or carried off in washing something or by the force of water:

   The washings from numerous spring floods had clogged the mouth of the river.

5. Mining.
   1. material, as gold dust, obtained by washing earth, gravel, etc.
   2. the deposits so washed.
6. Metalworking. wash ( def 46 ).
7. the act of making a wash sale.

washing

/ ˈwɒʃɪŋ /

noun

1. articles that have been or are to be washed together on a single occasion
2. liquid in which an article has been washed
3. something, such as gold dust or metal ore, that has been obtained by washing
4. a thin coat of something applied in liquid form

Word History and Origins

Origin of washing¹

First recorded in 1175–1225, washing is from the Middle English word wasschunge. See wash, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

A dog learns to sit on command, a person hears and eventually tunes out the hum of a washing machine while reading … The capacity to learn and adapt is central to evolution and, indeed, survival.

From Science Daily

In the past, islanders didn't hang washing outside as a mark of respect for the Sabbath - and on occasions some church-goers even chained up children's swings to help ensure peace and quiet.

From BBC

There is little controversy about the scale of the problem in social care, the system that helps older and disabled people with day-to-day tasks like washing, dressing, getting out of bed, eating and medication.

From BBC

In the past the term molly was an offensive word aimed at gay men, or men who carried out tasks considered to be women’s work, such as cooking or clothes washing.

From BBC

Crowds of birdwatchers flocked to a quiet cul-de-sac after a rare sighting of a species perched on a garden washing line.

From BBC