tanning

noun

tan·​ning ˈta-niŋ 

1

: a browning of the skin especially by exposure to sun

2

: the art or process by which a skin is tanned

3

: a sound spanking

4

: a natural darkening and hardening of the cuticle of an insect immediately after molting

Examples of tanning in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Of all the questionable beauty trends to return recently, tanning is one of the most frightening. —Tori Crowther, refinery29.com, 21 May 2024

The gas is typically used in oil and gas refining, mining, tanning and paper processing. —Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY, 11 Oct. 2024

Even artificial tanning methods, like tanning beds or spray tans, can leave you vulnerable to UV exposure. —Katie Liu, Discover Magazine, 7 Oct. 2024

Why do brands sell tanning accelerators despite the risks of tanning? —Tori Crowther, refinery29.com, 21 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing tanning

• tanning bed
• tanning booth

Kids Definition

tanning

noun

tan·​ning

ˈtan-iŋ

1

: the art or process by which an animal skin is tanned

2

: a browning of the skin especially by exposure to the sun

3

: a usually severe whipping

Medical Definition

tanning

noun

tan·​ning ˈtan-iŋ 

: a browning of the skin by exposure to sun