How Do You Spell WASHED OUT?

Pronunciation: [wˈɒʃt ˈa͡ʊt] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "washed out" can be explained through phonetic transcription. The first word, "washed," is pronounced /wɒʃt/, with the "a" sound represented as the open back unrounded vowel, and the "sh" sound represented as the voiceless postalveolar fricative. The second word, "out," is pronounced /aʊt/, with the "ou" sound represented as the diphthong /aʊ/, and the "t" at the end represented as the voiceless alveolar stop. Together, the phrase "washed out" is pronounced /wɒʃt aʊt/.

WASHED OUT Meaning and Definition

1. In colloquial usage, the term "washed out" is often used to describe something that appears faded, pale, or dull. It typically refers to an object, color, or impression that has lost its vibrancy or intensity. The phrase can be applied to various contexts, including visuals, emotions, or experiences.

   When used in reference to visuals, "washed out" suggests a lack of saturation or clarity. It implies that the object or scene appears less vivid or prominent, rendering it somewhat indistinct or blurry. For example, if a photograph has washed-out colors, it means that the hues are muted or less vibrant than they should be. Similarly, when discussing artwork, a washed-out painting might be one that lacks depth and seems washed away by time or exposure.

   Beyond visuals, "washed out" can pertain to emotions or experiences. In this context, it suggests a feeling of exhaustion, disappointment, or difficulty recovering from an event or circumstance. For instance, if someone appears washed out after a strenuous physical activity, it means they are drained, fatigued, and maybe even pale. Alternatively, if a person's face looks washed out after receiving bad news, it reflects a loss of color, vitality, and a drained expression.

   Overall, "washed out" conveys a deficiency in vibrancy, be it visual, emotional, or experiential, resulting in fading colors, dullness, or exhaustion. It denotes a state of diminished intensity or clarity, often implying a lack of liveliness or allure.

Common Misspellings for WASHED OUT

• wasshed-out
• wshed-out
• washd-out
• washted out
• wasached out

Etymology of WASHED OUT

The term "washed out" originated from the field of photography. In the early days of photography, images were captured on plates coated with a light-sensitive emulsion. When the exposure time was too long or the plate was not properly developed, the resulting photograph appeared faded or lacking in contrast. This effect was described as the image being "washed out", as if the colors had been diluted or faded by water. Over time, this term found its way into everyday language to describe anything that lacks vividness, intensity, or vibrancy, not necessarily related to photography.

Idioms with the word WASHED OUT

• washed out If someone is "washed out," it means they are pale, tired, or lacking vitality. It can also refer to something that has become faded or worn due to repeated washing or use. In a more figurative sense, it can mean worn out or depleted of energy or resources.

Similar spelling word for WASHED OUT

• washed-out.