Mop: meaning, definitions and examples

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mop

[mɒp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

cleaning tool

A mop is a tool consisting of a bundle of thick absorbent strings or a sponge attached to a handle, used for cleaning floors.

Synonyms

broom, sponge, swab.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mop	A mop is typically used for cleaning floors, especially wet messes or spills. It's suitable for larger areas where water and soap are needed. She grabbed the mop to clean up the spilled juice in the kitchen. The janitor used a mop to wash the hallway.
broom	A broom is used for sweeping dirt, dust, or debris from floors or other surfaces. It is best for dry cleaning and usually employed on hard surfaces like wood, tile, or concrete. He used a broom to sweep the leaves off the porch. She swept the crumbs off the floor with a broom.
swab	A swab is used for cleaning or spreading substances in small, precise areas. It is often associated with medical or laboratory use but can also refer to cleaning small household items or spaces. It can also have a negative connotation if used in an invasive medical context. The nurse used a swab to clean the wound. He used a swab to apply the paint to the small crevice.
sponge	A sponge is used for cleaning smaller areas and objects, often for scrubbing dishes, countertops, or other surfaces. It's ideal for absorbing liquid spills and wiping surfaces clean. She used a sponge to wash the dishes. He wiped down the kitchen counter with a sponge.

Examples of usage

She used a mop to clean the kitchen floor.
The janitor mopped the hallway every night.
The mop soaked up the spilled milk quickly.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

cleaning action

To mop means to clean or wipe (a floor or surface) with a mop.

Synonyms

scrub, swab, wipe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mop	Utilize when referring specifically to cleaning floors with a tool designed for this purpose. She used the mop to clean the kitchen floor after dinner The janitor mopped the hallway to make it shine

Examples of usage

She mopped the spilled water off the tiles.
He mops the kitchen floor every evening.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originated from the Old English word 'moppe', which referred to a cloth used for cleaning.
In the past, mops were often made from rags tied to a stick, showing how early cleaning tools adapted over time.

History

The modern mop was invented in the 1950s and revolutionized household cleaning, making it quicker and more efficient.
For much of history, floors were cleaned with a cloth or broom, but the mop introduced the concept of soaking up spills with ease.

Science

Mops have been shown to help reduce the spread of germs and bacteria when used correctly, as they can trap dirt and liquid.
Different mop materials, such as cotton and microfiber, can have varying levels of absorbency and effectiveness in cleaning.

Pop Culture

Mops are often featured in cartoons and movies, sometimes humorously portrayed as battle weapons or sidekicks.
In the popular television show 'Friends', a mop was humorously used by the characters in various cleaning misadventures.

Literature

Mops are mentioned in various literary works as a symbol of manual labor and the everyday life of households.
In children's books, mops often represent cleaning up after fun and mischief, helping to bring back order.

Translations

Translations of the word "mop" in other languages:

🇵🇹 esfregona

🇮🇳 पोछा

🇩🇪 Wischmopp

🇮🇩 pel

🇺🇦 швабра

🇵🇱 mop

🇯🇵 モップ

🇫🇷 serpillière

🇪🇸 fregona

🇹🇷 paspas

🇰🇷 걸레

🇸🇦 ممْسَحَة

🇨🇿 mop

🇸🇰 mop

🇨🇳 拖把

🇸🇮 mop

🇮🇸 mopp

🇰🇿 швабра

🇬🇪 მოპი

🇦🇿 mop

🇲🇽 fregona

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,266, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
19263 canvassed
19264 regionally
19265 creosote
19266 mop
19267 deflect
19268 stabbing
19269 dived
...