The spelling of the phrase "washes away" reflects its pronunciation in IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈwɒʃɪz əˈweɪ/. The "washes" portion is pronounced as "wah-shiz" with the "sh" sound represented by "sh" and the "es" represented by "z." The "away" segment is pronounced as "uh-wey" with the "a" represented by "uh" and the diphthong "ay" represented by "ey." Thus, the spelling accurately represents the sounds of this common phrase used to describe something being carried off or disappearing due to the action of water.
The term "washes away" refers to the process of gradual erasure or removal of something, typically as a result of water or liquid flow. It describes the action of a liquid, often water, inundating and carrying away particles, substances, or even structures.
Metaphorically, "washes away" can also describe the elimination or fading of an intangible thing, such as a memory, emotion, or problem. In this context, it signifies the gradual or complete disappearance of something from one's mind or life, as if it were being cleansed or wiped away. For instance, the passing of time may cause a once-painful memory to "wash away" and lose its emotional impact.
This phrase is commonly used in various contexts, including weather-related events like flooding or heavy rain, where excess water might wash away soil, rocks, or even buildings and infrastructure. Environmental processes such as erosion can also result in the wearing away or washing away of landforms and sediments.
Additionally, "washes away" can describe the cleaning action of water or other liquids. For instance, when dirt or stains are being removed from surfaces, water washes them away, leaving the area clean and free of impurities.
Overall, "washes away" denotes the effects of liquid flow, be it physical or metaphorical, leading to the gradual elimination of substances, memories, or problems.
The phrase "washes away" is not a standalone word with its own etymology. Instead, it is a combination of two separate words: "wash" and "away".
The word "wash" traces its origins back to the Old English word "wæscan", which meant "to wash, bathe, or cleanse". This Old English term evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "watskan", derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*wed-", meaning "to wet" or "to wash". The verb "wash" has retained its meaning of cleaning or rinsing through various Germanic languages.
On the other hand, the word "away" is an Old English word "onweg" or "anweg", which meant "from this place" or "in another place".