facing

American  

[fey-sing] / ˈfeɪ sɪŋ /

noun

1. a covering in front, for ornament, protection, etc., as an outer layer of stone on a brick wall.

2. a lining applied to the edge of a garment for ornament or strengthening.

3. material turned outward or inward, as a cuff or hem.

4. facings, coverings of a different color applied on the collar, cuffs, or other parts of a military coat.

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facing British  

/ ˈfeɪsɪŋ /

noun

1. a piece of material used esp to conceal the seam of a garment and prevent fraying

2. (usually plural) a piece of additional cloth, esp in a different colour, on the collar, cuffs, etc, of the jacket of a military uniform, formerly used to denote the regiment

3. an outer layer or coat of material applied to the surface of a wall

4. marketing an area of retail shelf space

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Etymology

Origin of facing

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; face + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

City Controller Kenneth Mejia has been facing an aggressive challenge from real estate executive Zach Sokoloff, whose campaign has gotten an enormous boost from his mother, Sheryl Sokoloff.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

J&J Nursery, a facility owned by a state senator who helped approve the Stratos megaproject, is facing widespread calls for a boycott.

From Slate • Jun. 1, 2026

"Peppers, particularly Scotch bonnets, are facing myriad challenges right across the Caribbean," says Dwight Forrester, of Jamaica's Rural Agricultural Development Authority.

From BBC • May 31, 2026

“We’re facing an urgent desire to make the improvements now,” Freye said.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026

Hila was still facing forward, but her eyes had rolled back so that only the whites were visible.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny