To do the dishes.
Washing up
Example Sentences
"That's a proper Washing up, that is."
"I've never seen such a Washing up in all my life."
Etymology & History
British term for dishwashing, washing dishes after a meal. 'Do the washing up', 'washing-up liquid' (dish soap), 'washing-up bowl'. The term distinguishes from 'washing' (laundry) or 'having a wash' (personal washing). Americans say 'do the dishes'. The specific British terminology shows language precision.
Word Details
📍
Region
General British
📅
Era
Modern
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Informal
Categories:
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Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
📚 Over 2,000+ British Slang Definitions!