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

My colleague, Charles McNulty, has alerted us to the serious problems facing theater in L.A.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

It's a problem one headteacher has described as the "most serious issue facing schools in a generation".

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Given current challenges facing NASA, the timeline remains uncertain.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

The firm will limit those withdrawals, as have most other private credit firms facing an exit rush.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

I toss the worksheet off my bed and roll over, facing the wall.

From "Wayward Creatures" by Dayna Lorentz