wash

[wɒʃ]

wash Definition

  • 1to clean something using water and usually soap
  • 2to make something seem less strong or noticeable
  • 3to flow over something in a particular way

Using wash: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "wash" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I need to wash my hands before eating.

  • Example

    She washed the dishes after dinner.

  • Example

    The rain washed away the dirt on the sidewalk.

  • Example

    He washed his face with cold water.

wash Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for wash

Idioms Using wash

  • to become clear or resolved over time

    Example

    I'm sure the truth will come out in the wash.

  • to discuss private or embarrassing matters in public

    Example

    I can't believe she aired our family problems like that. She really washed our dirty linen in public.

  • to discard something valuable along with something undesirable

    Example

    Let's not throw the baby out with the bathwater. There are some good ideas in this proposal.

Phrases with wash

  • to refuse to be involved in something any longer

    Example

    After the scandal, he decided to wash his hands of politics.

  • to fail or be unsuccessful

    Example

    I hope I don't wash out of the competition.

  • wash up

    to clean dishes, utensils, or oneself after a meal

    Example

    I'll wash up while you dry the dishes.

Origins of wash

from Old English 'wæscan', meaning 'to wash'

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Summary: wash in Brief

To 'wash' [wɒʃ] is to clean something using water and soap, such as hands, dishes, or clothes. It can also mean to make something less noticeable or to flow over something. Phrases like 'wash one's hands of something' and idioms like 'come out in the wash' extend the term to metaphorical contexts.

How do native speakers use this expression?