Washer: meaning, definitions and examples

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washer

 

[ ˈwɒʃə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

household appliance

A washer is a machine designed to wash laundry, such as clothing, towels, and sheets, by using water and detergent. Washers come in various sizes and types, including top-loading and front-loading machines.

Synonyms

laundry machine, washing machine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
washer

Informal and common usage, often in spoken language.

  • I need to fix the washer; it's leaking water.
  • She put the dirty clothes in the washer and left them to clean.
washing machine

Standard and widely acceptable in both written and spoken language.

  • Our washing machine just broke, and we need to buy a new one.
  • He loaded the clothes into the washing machine and added detergent.
laundry machine

Less common, possibly used in formal or instructional writing.

  • The new laundry machine has multiple washing cycles.
  • To start the laundry machine, press the power button and select a wash cycle.

Examples of usage

  • The washer is broken, so we have to go to the laundromat.
  • She threw her dirty clothes into the washer and added detergent.
Context #2 | Noun

person who washes

A washer is a person employed to wash clothes, especially in a commercial or industrial setting. Washers are responsible for sorting, washing, drying, and folding laundry.

Synonyms

cleaner, laundry worker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
washer

This term is commonly used to refer to a machine that washes clothes. It can also refer to a person who is responsible for washing tasks. The term is casual and neutral.

  • I just bought a new washer for our home
  • She works as a washer at the local car wash
laundry worker

This term is specific to someone who works in a laundry, i.e., a place where clothes and linens are washed and cleaned. It is a formal term and is typically used in professional contexts.

  • The hotel employs several laundry workers to maintain its linens
  • He has been a laundry worker for over ten years
cleaner

This term is broad and can refer to someone who cleans buildings, homes, or offices. It can also refer to a substance or device used for cleaning. The term is neutral but can sometimes imply a lower status job.

  • She hired a cleaner to take care of the house every week
  • We need a stronger cleaner to get rid of these stains

Examples of usage

  • The washer at the hotel ensures that all linens are clean and fresh.
  • My grandmother used to work as a washer in a textile factory.

Translations

Translations of the word "washer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 máquina de lavar

🇮🇳 वॉशिंग मशीन

🇩🇪 Waschmaschine

🇮🇩 mesin cuci

🇺🇦 пральна машина

🇵🇱 pralka

🇯🇵 洗濯機 (sentakki)

🇫🇷 machine à laver

🇪🇸 lavadora

🇹🇷 çamaşır makinesi

🇰🇷 세탁기 (setakgi)

🇸🇦 غسالة

🇨🇿 pračka

🇸🇰 práčka

🇨🇳 洗衣机 (xǐyījī)

🇸🇮 pralni stroj

🇮🇸 þvottavél

🇰🇿 кір жуатын машина

🇬🇪 სარეცხი მანქანა

🇦🇿 paltaryuyan maşın

🇲🇽 lavadora

Etymology

The word 'washer' originated from the Old English word 'wascan' which means 'to wash'. Over time, the term evolved to refer to both the machine used for washing clothes and the person who washes clothes. The concept of washing clothes has been essential throughout history as cleanliness and hygiene have always been valued in society.

See also: wash, washbasin, washing, washroom.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,717, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.