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Scrubbed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scrubbed

[skrubd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

cleaning process

Scrubbed is the past tense of the verb scrub, which means to clean something thoroughly by rubbing it hard, often with a brush and soap. This action is usually applied to surfaces like floors, dishes, or bathrooms to remove dirt or stains.

Synonyms

buffed, cleaned, scoured, washed.

Examples of usage

  • She scrubbed the kitchen floor until it shone.
  • They scrubbed the pots and pans after dinner.
  • He scrubbed the car to remove the stubborn dirt.
  • The cleaner scrubbed the bathroom tiles vigorously.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In the 1990s, the television show 'Scrubs' humorously portrayed the lives of hospital interns, helping to popularize the idea of 'scrubbing in' among audiences.
  • The term is often used in gaming to denote 'clearing' or 'cleaning up' an area free of enemies or obstacles.

Science

  • In laboratory settings, equipment and surfaces are often scrubbed to prevent contamination and ensure safety during experiments.
  • Scrubbing is a technique used in ecology where invasive species are removed to help restore natural habitats.

Psychology

  • The act of scrubbing can be associated with a need for control and cleanliness, sometimes linked to obsessive-compulsive tendencies.
  • Research has shown that cleaning behaviors can have therapeutic effects, reducing anxiety and improving mood.

History

  • Historically, scrubbing was a common part of household chores, especially in the 19th century when sanitation became a public health priority.
  • Before modern cleaning products, people used natural abrasives like sand or ashes for scrubbing hard surfaces.

Origin of 'scrubbed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English term 'scrubban', which means to rub hard or clean.
  • In Middle English, the word evolved to 'scrubben', meaning to cleanse vigorously in a rough manner.

The word 'scrub' originates from the Old English word 'scrubban', which means to rub or to clean, and it has cognates in other Germanic languages. Over time, it evolved in usage to refer to the vigorous action of cleaning something by repeatedly rubbing it. The use of scrub in its noun form emerged in the 15th century, denoting a brush or tool used for cleaning. In modern English, 'scrubbed' not only refers to the physical action of cleaning but has also developed colloquial uses in various contexts, such as in data cleaning or the elimination of non-essential elements in a project. The process of scrubbing has been a critical part of many hygiene practices and remains essential in both domestic and industrial cleaning paradigms.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,357, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.