shaving

noun

shav·​ing ˈshā-viŋ How to pronounce shaving (audio)
Synonyms of shavingnext
1
: the act of one that shaves
2
: something shaved off
wood shavings

Examples of shaving in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones fall on opposing ends of the leg-shaving continuum. — Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 6 Aug. 2026 Villegas is accused of shaving points during the 2004-05 and 2005-06 seasons. — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026 Prior to their own discussion about shaving, Jones recalled interviewing Palmer on the show last month — and, yes, legs came up. — Shelby Stivale, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Aug. 2026 This classic coconut cake has coconut extract, flaked coconut, and coconut shavings on the ingredient list, so there’s no shortage of flavor. — Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for shaving

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shaving was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing shaving

Rhymes for shaving

See All Rhymes for shaving

Browse Nearby Words

shavie
shaving
shaving board
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shaving.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shaving. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

shaving

noun
shav·​ing
ˈshā-viŋ
1
: the act of one that shaves
2
: something shaved off
wood shavings

More from Merriam-Webster on shaving

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for shaving

Nglish: Translation of shaving for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about shaving

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