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penciling

American  
[pen-suh-ling] / ˈpɛn sə lɪŋ /

noun

  1. work or markings done with or as if with a pencil or brush, especially fine or delicate work done with a pencil or brush on a painting or drawing.

  2. a drawing or sketch made with a pencil.


Etymology

Origin of penciling

First recorded in 1700–10; pencil + -ing 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Wall Street analysts are already penciling in strong earnings growth — not just for large-cap companies, but for small-cap firms as well, FactSet data showed.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 9, 2026

Though this list isn’t exhaustive by any means, and not all dates have been announced, there’s plenty to start penciling into your calendar.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 2, 2026

Economists remain divided on the BOK’s policy path, with some still penciling in a rate cut in the first quarter of 2026 and others maintaining that the current easing cycle may have already ended.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 27, 2025

The economic outlook has shifted considerably from earlier this year, with economists penciling in more growth and less inflation than previously expected.

From Barron's • Oct. 13, 2025

“This is almost too easy,” Shay said, penciling a pair of fat, black eyebrows over her own.

From "Uglies" by Scott Westerfeld

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