hand-washing

Or hand·wash·ing

[hand-wosh-ing, -wawsh‐]

noun

1. the act or activity of laundering something by hand.

2. the act or activity of washing one’s hands.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hand-washing¹

First recorded in 1790–95; hand ( def. ) + washing ( def. )

Example Sentences

Strict hygiene instructions, including vigorous hand-washing, were followed, at all times.

From BBC

Since then, according to Task Force 51, the military has contracted “for sleeping tents, latrines, showers, hand-washing stations, hot meals for breakfast, dinner and a late-night meal, and full laundry service.”

From Los Angeles Times

Parents have been told to be vigilant and ensure strict hygiene at home, with authorities advising regular hand-washing, washing of fruit and vegetables, thoroughly cooking meat and separating raw and cooked food.

From BBC

Last month, inspectors found what appeared to be mold and mildew around the hand-washing sinks used by workers preparing ready-to-eat meats, CBS News reported.

From Salon

CBS News reported that last month, inspectors found what appeared to be mold and mildew around the hand-washing sinks used by workers preparing ready-to-eat meats.

From Salon