We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Find out more

Subscriber login

Library card login

Other

X Close menu

Dictionary Language resources

Washington

Pronunciation: /ˈwɒʃɪŋtən/

Definition of Washington

1a state of the north-western US, on the Pacific coast; population 6,549,224 (est. 2008); capital, Olympia. It became the 42nd state in 1889.

2the capital of the US; population 591,833 (est. 2008). It is coextensive with the District of Columbia, a federal district on the Potomac River with boundaries on the states of Virginia and Maryland. Founded in 1790, during the presidency of George Washington, it was planned and built as a capital city. Full name Washington DC.