washing
UK: ˈwɒʃɪŋ | US: ˈwɑːʃɪŋ
n. the act or process of cleaning something with water and soap or detergent
n. clothes or other items that are to be washed or have been washed
The word "washing" derives from the Old English wæscan (to wash), which traces back to the Proto-Germanic watskaną. The root "wash" has retained its core meaning of cleaning with water across centuries. The suffix "-ing" transforms the verb into a noun, denoting either the action (e.g., "She is doing the washing") or the result (e.g., "a pile of washing"). This structure reflects a common Germanic pattern of verb-to-noun conversion.
She hung the washing on the line to dry in the sun.
The sound of washing dishes echoed from the kitchen.
Modern washing machines save time and effort.
He sorted the washing into whites and colors.
The washing detergent removed all the stains effectively.