Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Washed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงผ
Add to dictionary

washed

[wษ’สƒt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Washed is the simple past tense of the verb 'wash.' To wash means to clean something using water and often soap or detergent. This action is often applied to various items such as clothes, dishes, or even oneself. The term implies thorough cleaning, removing dirt, or impurities from the surface of an object.

Synonyms

cleaned, rinsed, scrubbed.

Examples of usage

  • I washed my hands before dinner.
  • She washed the car yesterday.
  • They washed the dishes after the meal.
Context #2 | Adjective

color

Washed can also refer to a color that has been lightened or faded, usually through exposure to water or chemicals. When referring to clothing or materials, 'washed' indicates that the item has undergone a washing process that alters its original coloration. This often gives a softer, more muted appearance to the fabric.

Synonyms

bleached, faded, lightened.

Examples of usage

  • He wore a washed denim jacket.
  • The washed-out colors of the artwork give it a vintage feel.
  • She prefers washed linen for its softness.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • In many cultures, washing hands before meals is a ritual for hygiene and health.
  • Washing clothes has deep cultural significance, often associated with seasonal traditions and festivals.
  • Some cultures use special methods of washing, such as using specific herbs or natural ingredients.

Science

  • Washing hands with soap and water is scientifically proven to reduce the spread of germs and illness.
  • Different materials may require different washing techniques to avoid damage, such as delicate fabrics needing gentler cleaning.
  • Research shows that washing with warm water can be more effective in removing certain germs compared to cold water.

Historical Perspectives

  • Historically, ancient civilizations would use ash and water as a cleansing agent before the invention of soap.
  • The practice of washing clothes dates back to prehistoric times, often involving beating clothes on stones near rivers.
  • In medieval Europe, washing at communal laundries was a social activity, often bringing people together for gossip and community bonding.

Origin of 'washed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'washed' originates from the Old English term 'wascan', meaning to cleanse or wash.
  • In many languages, the roots for 'wash' share a common meaning related to cleaning or purifying.
  • Over time, the meaning of the word has expanded to include various forms of cleaning, not just with water.

The word 'wash' comes from the Old English 'wรฆscan,' which is linked to the Proto-Germanic '*waskijan,' meaning 'to wet' or 'to moisten.' Its roots can also be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root '*w(e)g-' meaning 'to be strong, be lively.' Over time, 'wash' evolved and its past tense 'washed' was formed by adding '-ed' to indicate the completed action. The concept of washing has been essential in human societies for cleanliness and hygiene, evolving through various cultural practices and technological advancements. The frequency and methods of washing have varied throughout history, but the fundamental need remains: to cleanse and sanitize. As societies grew and developed, the term expanded beyond personal hygiene, encompassing the washing of clothing, dishes, and other items integral to daily life.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,952, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.