What is another word for washing?

Common synonyms for washing include lap, rinse, washables, lavation, washaway.

What is the opposite of washing?

Antonyms of washing include drying, soiling, fouling, staining, dirtiness.

Synonyms for

Washing

Verb / ˈwɑ:ʃɪŋ / Another word for washing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the act of cleaning something by rubbing it with soap and water

Synonyms & similar words

lap rinse washables lavation washaway washoff launder washout dampen moisten laundry lave wash cleaning scrubbing rinsing laundry laundering cleansing washing-up shampooing repeating doubling

Synonyms by register

Formal

cleansing purification sanitation ablution

Informal

scrubbing rinsing laundering dunking

Literary

ablution purification cleansing

Antonyms

drying soiling fouling staining dirtiness grime

Common collocations

washing machine
washing powder
washing up
hand washing
washing line
washing hands
washing clothes

Word family

noun washing

verb wash

adjective washable

adverb washily

Usage note

The term 'washing' can refer to the act of cleaning with water or the items being washed, such as laundry. 'Washing up' specifically refers to cleaning dishes.