molding

noun

mold·​ing ˈmōl-diŋ 

1

: an object produced by molding

2

a

: a decorative recessed or relieved surface

b

: a decorative plane or curved strip used for ornamentation or finishing

Illustration of molding

• 1 fillet and fascia
• 2 torus
• 3 reeding
• 4 cavetto
• 5 scotia
• 6 congé
• 7 beak

Examples of molding in a Sentence

The house has beautiful moldings around its doors and windows.

Recent Examples on the Web

The traditional main residence showcases intricate molding and dark wood flooring throughout, from the grand formal living and dining rooms to the more casual sitting rooms and breakfast nook, with practically all the spaces featuring stately fireplaces. —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 30 Apr. 2026

If your home is newer, there are so many ways to infuse a historic look into your space through reproduction pieces and details like picture molding. —Tessa Cooper, The Spruce, 27 Apr. 2026

Here, Beriestain sought to preserve the richness of the original materials and craftsmanship, with Mudejar-style moldings paired with textiles and furnishings that evoke elegant Parisian brasseries. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

Don't Only Think About Walls Crown molding, baseboards, and door casings often get forgotten. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing molding

• bed molding
• crown molding
• injection molding

Rhymes for molding

• folding
• holding
• moulding
• scolding
• beholding
• enfolding
• landholding
• refolding
• shareholding
• slaveholding
• stockholding
• unfolding

Kids Definition

molding

noun

mold·​ing ˈmōl-diŋ 

1

a

: the act or work of a person who molds

b

: an object produced by molding

2

: a strip of material having a shaped surface and used as a decoration (as on a wall or the edge of a table)

Medical Definition

molding

noun

mold·​ing

variants or chiefly British moulding

ˈmōl-diŋ 

: an act or process of molding

specifically : the shaping of the fetal head to allow it to pass through the birth canal during childbirth