making

American  

[mey-king] / ˈmeɪ kɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that makes.

   The making of a violin requires great skill.

2. structure; constitution; makeup.

3. the means or cause of success or advancement.

   to be the making of someone.

4. Usually makings. capacity or potential.

   He has the makings of a first-rate officer.

5. makings,

   1. material of which something may be made.

      the makings for a tossed salad.

   2. Older Slang. paper and tobacco with which to make a hand-rolled cigarette.

6. something made.

7. the quantity made.

   a making of butter.

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idioms

1. in the making, in the process of being made; developing or evolving; growing.

   Our space scientists see history in the making.

making British  

/ ˈmeɪkɪŋ /

noun

1. 1. the act of a person or thing that makes or the process of being made

   2. ( in combination )

      watchmaking

2. to cause the success of

3. in the process of becoming or being made

   a politician in the making

4. something made or the quantity of something made at one time

5. make-up; composition

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Other Word Forms

• self-making adjective

Etymology

Origin of making

First recorded before 1150; Middle English; Old English macung; make ¹ + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

The missile makers are making upfront investments to boost output, but the moves could swell profits if the government makes good on its promised contracts over the coming years.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

The impact of higher energy prices could be both to boost prices and knock growth, making the Bank's job harder.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Raheja admitted to making false statements to federal agents in 2023, including denying that the overbooking practices were intentional, according to the plea agreement.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

Several growth stocks are making big moves, with traders potentially looking forward to the end of the Iran war, says Future Fund co-founder Gary Black.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

I enjoy watching it too, but Zara takes it to a whole other level, especially when she thinks the contestants are making the wrong choice.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam

Related Words

• formulation