'washing-machine' originates from English, specifically the words 'washing' (the gerund of 'wash') and 'machine', where 'wash' ultimately comes from Old English 'wæscan' meaning 'to wash' and 'machine' comes from French/Latin 'machine'/'machina' meaning 'device' or 'instrument'.

'washing-machine' developed as a compound in modern English in the late 19th century as mechanical laundry devices became common; it is related to earlier terms such as the French phrase 'machine à laver' and older English descriptions like 'washing engine' before the standardized compound 'washing machine' (and the hyphenated 'washing-machine') became widespread.

Initially related to any mechanical device used for washing (including industrial devices), the term evolved to most commonly mean the household appliance used specifically for washing clothes.