drawing

American  

[draw-ing] / ˈdrɔ ɪŋ /

noun

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

2. a graphic representation by lines of an object or idea, as with a pencil; a delineation of form without reference to color.

3. a sketch, plan, or design, especially one made with pen, pencil, or crayon.

4. the art or technique of making these.

5. something decided by drawing lots; lottery.

6. the selection, or time of selection, of the winning chance or chances sold by lottery or raffle.

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drawing British  

/ ˈdrɔːɪŋ /

noun

1. a picture or plan made by means of lines on a surface, esp one made with a pencil or pen without the use of colour

2. a sketch, plan, or outline

3. the art of making drawings; draughtsmanship

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Other Word Forms

• self-drawing
  noun

Etymology

Origin of drawing

A Middle English word dating back to 1275–1325; see origin at draw, -ing ¹

Explanation

A drawing is a sketch or a picture, usually made with a pencil or pen. You might use extra class time after you've finished a test to make a quick drawing of your teacher sleeping at his desk. A drawing is an artwork that's not a painting — it's made of sketched lines and represents some object, person, or form. An architect might begin working on a project for a house design by doing some drawings, and a kindergartener might proudly hang a drawing of her family on the refrigerator. Another kind of drawing is the act of pulling, which is also the earliest meaning of the word.

Example Sentences

"Well, technically I did take Law 101 in school," he added, drawing laughter from the packed courtroom gallery.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

Karen Bass performed as an effective communicator by maintaining a measured and forceful demeanor while defending her record without becoming defensive, successfully drawing on backing from powerful labor unions and the broader Democratic establishment.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

It will take much more than that to reassure investors that the crypto winter is finally drawing to a close.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

But its goal then was driving up oil prices without drawing the U.S. into conflict, said Kenneth M. Pollack, vice president for policy at the Middle East Institute.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

He jumped when the gruff voice said, "Perhaps you did not understand me, Mr. Thatcher. We are drawing still lifes today. In particular, that still life."

From "Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher" by Bruce Coville

Related Words

• cartoon
• depiction
• design
• etching
• graphics
• layout
• likeness
• painting
• picture
• sketch
• study
• work of art