Swab
WordNet
noun
(1) Cleaning implement consisting of absorbent material fastened to a handle; for cleaning floors
(2) Implement consisting of a small piece of cotton that is used to apply medication or cleanse a wound or obtain a specimen of a secretion
verb
(3) Apply (usually a liquid) to a surface
"Dab the wall with paint"
(4) Wash with a swab or a mop
"Swab the ship's decks"
WiktionaryText
Noun
- a small piece of soft, absorbent material, such as gauze, used to clean wounds, apply medicine, or take samples of body fluids. Often attached to a stick or wire to aid access.
- A sample taken with a swab (1).
- A piece of material used for cleaning or sampling other items like musical instruments or guns.
- A mop, especially on a ship.
- A sailor; see swabby.
Verb
- To use a swab on something, or clean something with a swab
- swab the decks: mop the deck of a ship