SWAB

v. n.

6 definitions — Webster’s Dictionary (1828)


1.
v.

To clean with a mop or swab; to wipe when very wet, as after washing; as, to swab the desk of a ship. [Spelt also swob.]

2.
n.

A kind of mop for cleaning floors, the desks of vessels, etc., esp. one made of rope-yarns or threads.

3.
n.

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.

4.
n.

An epaulet. [Sailor's Slang] Marryat.

5.
n.

A cod, or pod, as of beans or pease. [Obs.] Bailey.

6.
n.

A sponge, or other suitable substance, attached to a long rod or handle, for cleaning the bore of a firearm.


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