washing machine

American  

noun

washing machines plural

1. an apparatus, especially a household appliance, for washing clothing, linens, etc.

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washing machine British  

noun

1. a mechanical apparatus, usually powered by electricity, for washing clothing, linens, etc

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• washing machines
  plural

Etymology

Origin of washing machine

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

Bylett and his wife have had to make changes, including cooking all their meals in advance of heatwaves to avoid using hot appliances in high temperatures and avoiding putting the washing machine on.

From BBC • Jun. 25, 2026

According to a 2020 survey by Federal Reserve and University of Chicago economists, the tariffs forced washing machine prices up by nearly 12%, or about $86 each.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

On the side of a highway on the outskirts of Havana, vendors sell bags of charcoal and makeshift braziers, some fashioned from old washing machine drums.

From Barron's • Feb. 11, 2026

At the same event, Kojey Radical said he wasn't worried about AI when he couldn't even trust his washing machine to start at the right time.

From BBC • Jan. 16, 2026

The washing machine itself is tubular white enamel, a hulk on four spindly legs.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood