Swab

usgb/swɑːb/
noun

A small piece of soft material at the end of a thin stick, used for cleaning something or for putting medicine on a part of the body.

He took a throat swab to test for infection.
Visual representation of "swab" - A small piece of soft material at the end of a thin stick, used for cleaning something or for putting medicine on a part of the body

Often appears as...

  • take a swab
  • use a swab

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "swab"
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Medical Context

Used primarily in medical settings to collect samples or apply treatments.

Illustration for Medical Context
The doctor used a swab to collect cells for the lab test.
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Not for Ears

Although commonly used, medical advice suggests not using swabs to clean ears.

Illustration for Not for Ears
Use a washcloth instead of a swab to clean your ears safely.
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Disposable Item

Swabs are often disposable and should be discarded after one use to prevent contamination.

Illustration for Disposable Item
After cleaning the cut, she threw the swab away.
Visual representation of the word "Swab"

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