Swabbed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งผ
swabbed
[หswษหbd ]
Definition
medical procedure
Swabbed is the past form of the verb 'swab', which refers to the act of cleaning, wiping, or collecting a sample from a surface or a part of the body using a piece of absorbent material. This procedure is commonly used in medical settings to gather samples for testing or to clean wounds. In a laboratory context, a swab may be taken to test for the presence of bacteria or viruses. It can also refer to the act of applying a liquid such as antiseptic onto a swabbed area. Proper technique is essential to ensure samples are collected effectively.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The nurse swabbed the patient's arm before the injection.
- The technician swabbed the surface to check for contaminants.
- He swabbed the inside of his mouth for a DNA test.
Translations
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Origin of 'swabbed'
The word 'swab' originates from the Middle English term 'swobbe', meaning 'to wash' or 'to wipe'. It is believed to have ties to the Old Norse word 'svabba', which means 'to wipe or scrub'. The use of swabs in a medical context became more prevalent as the understanding of hygiene and sterilization processes advanced in the early 20th century. Swabbing techniques have been integral in various fields, ranging from medical testing to forensic science, highlighting the importance of collecting uncontaminated samples for analysis. Over time, the noun form 'swab' also developed, referring to the absorbent material used in this process, and its usage has become synonymous with modern diagnostic practices.