washington

word

/ˈwɑʃɪŋtən/
WAH-shing-tuhn
/ˈwɒʃɪŋtən/
WO-shing-tuhn

Definition

Washington can refer to the U.S. capital city, the U.S. state on the west coast, or George Washington, the first president of the United States. The meaning usually becomes clear from context.

Usage & Nuances

Be careful: 'Washington' often means Washington, D.C., especially in news about the U.S. government, but it can also mean the state. To avoid confusion, people often say 'Washington State' or 'Washington, D.C.' Common phrases include 'in Washington' and 'from Washington'.

Example Sentences

My aunt lives in Washington.

basic

They traveled to Washington last summer.

basic

Washington is famous for its museums.

basic

I thought the meeting was in Seattle, not Washington.

natural

News from Washington is all over TV today.

natural

When people say Washington, they sometimes mean the federal government.

natural