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Swabbing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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swabbing

[ˈswɒbɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical procedure

Swabbing is the act of taking a sample from a person's body using a cotton swab. It is commonly done for DNA testing, virus testing, or bacterial culture. The swab is gently rubbed against the skin or inside the mouth to collect cells for analysis.

Synonyms

collection, extraction, sampling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
swabbing

Swabbing is typically used in medical or forensic fields to describe the action of taking a sample using a swab (a small stick with cotton on the end).

  • The nurse performed swabbing to test for the presence of the virus.
  • Swabbing the crime scene can help gather DNA evidence.
sampling

Sampling is a term used in research and statistics to describe the process of selecting a subset of individuals or items from a larger population in order to make inferences.

  • The sampling method used in this survey helps ensure the results are representative.
  • Water quality testing involves careful sampling from different sources.
collection

Collection is a general term used in various fields to describe the gathering of items, samples, or data.

  • The scientist emphasized the importance of sample collection for the study.
  • Garbage collection happens every Monday in our neighborhood.
extraction

Extraction refers to the process of removing something, usually with effort or skill. It is often used in scientific and medical contexts.

  • The extraction of DNA from the sample was successful.
  • The dentist scheduled an extraction of the impacted tooth.

Examples of usage

  • The nurse performed a swabbing of the patient's throat to test for strep throat.
  • The forensic team used swabbing to collect evidence from the crime scene.
Context #2 | Verb

cleaning or disinfecting

Swabbing is the action of cleaning or disinfecting a surface by wiping it with a wet cloth or sponge. It is commonly used in hospitals, laboratories, or cleanrooms to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.

Synonyms

clean, disinfect, wipe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
swabbing

Commonly used in medical or scientific contexts to describe the action of using a small piece of absorbent material to collect a sample or apply a substance, often for testing or cleaning a small area.

  • The nurse is swabbing my arm before the injection.
  • They were swabbing surfaces for bacterial samples.
wipe

Used in general contexts, indicating the act of cleaning or drying a surface by rubbing it with a cloth, tissue, or similar item. Can be less thorough than 'clean'.

  • Please wipe the table after you're done eating.
  • She wiped her hands on a towel after washing them.
clean

Used in everyday situations to indicate the removal of dirt, dust, or mess from surfaces or objects.

  • I need to clean the kitchen before our guests arrive.
  • She cleaned her room thoroughly over the weekend.
disinfect

Used in contexts where the goal is to remove or kill bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens to ensure sanitary conditions. Common in healthcare, food preparation, and areas where hygiene is critical.

  • It's important to disinfect the countertop after preparing raw chicken.
  • Hospitals regularly disinfect rooms to prevent the spread of infections.

Examples of usage

  • The janitor was swabbing the floors to remove any dirt.
  • The scientist swabbed the equipment with alcohol to sterilize it.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Medicine

  • In healthcare, swabbing is crucial for collecting samples to test for infections.
  • Swabs are often used to check for bacteria or viruses, helping doctors diagnose illnesses accurately.
  • Different types of swabs are used for various tests, such as throat swabs for strep or nasal swabs for flu.

Culture

  • In some cultures, swabbing can symbolize purification, often done in rituals or spiritual practices.
  • The act of swabbing with a mixture can also represent the blending of traditions in culinary experiences.
  • Swabbing is also commonly used in science labs, showcasing how cultures emphasize hygiene and health.

Technology

  • Advancements in technology have led to the development of specialized swabs for efficient sample collection.
  • In some industries, automated swabbing devices are used to ensure consistent cleaning standards.
  • Research in nanotechnology is improving swab materials for better contamination prevention.

Literature

  • Swabbing techniques often appear in mystery novels as detectives uncover clues through cleaning evidence.
  • In classic literature, characters may swab to signify their status, indicating concern for cleanliness and order.
  • Metaphorically, swabbing can represent the thorough examination of one's thoughts or environment.

Origin of 'swabbing'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'swab' comes from the Middle Dutch word 'swabbe,' meaning to clean or wipe.
  • Originally, 'swab' referred to a piece of cloth soaked in a liquid used for cleaning.
  • The word evolved in English to also describe the action of wiping as well as the tool used for the job.

The word 'swabbing' originated from the Old English word 'swabba', which means 'mop' or 'cloth for cleaning'. The term has evolved over time to refer to the act of wiping or cleaning with a cloth or sponge. It has been used in various industries, especially in healthcare and forensics, to describe the process of sampling or cleaning surfaces.

See also: swab.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,005 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.