Word Definition

Swab

  1. A sponge, or other suitable substance, attached to a long rod or handle, for cleaning the bore of a firearm.
  2. A kind of mop for cleaning floors, the desks of vessels, etc., esp. one made of rope-yarns or threads.
  3. An epaulet.
  4. To clean with a mop or swab; to wipe when very wet, as after washing; as, to swab the desk of a ship.
  5. A bit of sponge, cloth, or the like, fastened to a handle, for cleansing the mouth of a sick person, applying medicaments to deep-seated parts, etc.
  6. A cod, or pod, as of beans or pease.

Synonyms