swab

• Petit morceau de matériau absorbant, comme du coton, utilisé pour nettoyer, appliquer un médicament ou prélever un échantillon sur une surface ou une plaie.

A noun referring to a small piece of absorbent material, such as cotton, used for cleaning, applying medication, or taking a sample from a surface or wound.

1. Medical swabB1formalmedical

   A small piece of absorbent material, often cotton, attached to a stick, used to apply medication, clean a wound, or collect a sample of a secretion.

   Écouvillon (médical)

   • The nurse used a swab to clean the cut.
   • He took a throat swab to test for the infection.
   • The doctor collected a swab from the wound for analysis.

   Synonymesapplicator

2. Cleaning swabB1formal

   A cleaning tool made of absorbent material attached to a handle, used for cleaning floors or other surfaces.

   Bâtonnet de nettoyage / écouvillon de nettoyage

   • The janitor used a swab to mop the floor.
   • She dipped the swab in soapy water before cleaning.
   • A swab is effective for reaching under furniture.

   Synonymesmop

• Verbe signifiant nettoyer ou appliquer une substance à l'aide d'un tampon, ou prélever un échantillon pour analyse.

A verb meaning to clean or apply a substance using a swab, or to take a sample for testing.

1. Clean with a swabB2formalmedical

   To clean or wash a surface, wound, or area using a swab or mop.

   Nettoyer avec un écouvillon

   • The nurse swabbed the wound before applying the bandage.
   • He swabbed the deck of the ship with a mop.
   • The doctor swabbed the patient's throat to collect a sample.

   Synonymescleanmopscrubspongewashwipe

2. B2formalmedical

   To apply a liquid, such as a disinfectant or medication, to a surface using a swab.

   appliquer avec un écouvillon

   • She swabbed the cut with antiseptic.
   • The technician swabbed the area with alcohol before the injection.
   • He carefully swabbed the paint thinner onto the stain.

   Synonymesapplydaubsmearwipe