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

The Federal Reserve is only penciling in one potential interest-rate cut in 2026, citing uncertainty in the Middle East as a reason to go slow.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

“We’re not penciling in a recession or anything like that.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 14, 2026

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

In the meantime, below are 10 essential Latino performances we’ll be penciling into our schedule, listed in chronological order.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 7, 2025

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

From "Uglies" by Scott Westerfeld