Meaning & Definition of word "Whitening"

Whitening

/ˈhwaɪtənɪŋ/

noun:

  • 1. The process of making something white or less colored.
    • Example: The whitening of the fabric was achieved through several washes with bleach.
  • 2. A cosmetic procedure that lightens the color of the teeth.
    • Example: She recently underwent a whitening treatment to enhance her smile before the wedding.
  • 3. The action or process of removing stains or discoloration.
    • Example: The whitening of the walls was necessary after years of smoke exposure.

verb:

  • 1. To make or become white or whiter.
    • Example: The laundry detergent claims to whiten whites and brighten colors.
  • 2. To undergo a bleaching process, particularly in regard to teeth.
    • Example: He decided to whiten his teeth before the big interview.

Etymology

Derived from the verb 'whiten', which comes from the Old English 'hwita' meaning 'white'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

whitening strips:

Thin plastic strips coated with a whitening gel for teeth whitening.

skin whitening:

Cosmetic procedures or products used to lighten skin pigmentation.

whitening toothpaste:

Toothpaste formulated to help remove stains and whiten teeth.

Related Words

whiten:

To make or become white or whiter.

whiteness:

The quality or state of being white.

bleach:

To remove color from something by using a chemical agent.

Slang Meanings of whitening

Meaning: Whitening as a trend in beauty culture.

Example Sentence: Many influencers promote whitening products as a way to achieve beauty standards.

Meaning: Referring to skin lightening in cosmetic discussions.

Example Sentence: He said he was into whitening, but I prefer embracing natural skin tones.