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Wipes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wipes

[waษชps ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

cleaning

Cloths or tissues used for cleaning or wiping surfaces.

Synonyms

cloths, tissues, towels.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wipes

Used for cleaning surfaces, hands, or objects, usually pre-moistened with a cleaning solution. Commonly found in households and healthcare settings.

  • She used disinfectant wipes to clean the kitchen counter.
  • Baby wipes are essential in a diaper bag.
tissues

Primarily used for personal hygiene such as blowing one's nose, wiping tears, or cleaning small spills. Typically made of soft, disposable paper.

  • She handed him a tissue when he started to sneeze.
  • He kept a box of tissues on his desk at work.
cloths

Refers to pieces of fabric used for cleaning or wiping surfaces. They can be made of various materials like cotton, microfiber, or linen.

  • He used a microfiber cloth to polish the car.
  • The chef always keeps a clean cloth handy to wipe the counter.
towels

Larger pieces of absorbent fabric used for drying things like dishes, hands, or bodies after washing. They are usually made of materials like cotton or terrycloth.

  • He grabbed a towel to dry off after the shower.
  • The kitchen towels were hung neatly on the oven handle.

Examples of usage

  • He used wipes to clean the kitchen counter.
  • She always carries wipes in her bag for quick cleaning.
Context #2 | Verb

cleaning

To clean or dry something by rubbing it with a cloth or tissue.

Synonyms

clean, dry, rub.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wipes

This is often used when referring to disposable cleaning cloths that are used to remove dirt or messes. They are usually moist and come in packages. It's common in household cleaning or personal hygiene.

  • She used disinfectant wipes to clean the kitchen counter.
  • I always keep baby wipes in my bag.
clean

This term is used in a broader sense to mean making something free from dirt, dust, or impurities. It could refer to a variety of methods and tools.

  • He needs to clean his room before the guests arrive.
  • Please clean the car before we take a trip.
rub

This is used when describing the action of applying pressure and movement to an object or surface. It can be for cleaning, soothing, or even in a negative sense to cause friction and discomfort.

  • He had to rub the stain out of the fabric.
  • The new shoes rub against my heels and cause blisters.
  • She gently rubbed the lotion into her skin.
dry

Use this term when you want to remove moisture or water from something. It's often used in the context of drying dishes, clothes, or surfaces.

  • After washing the car, you should dry it to prevent water spots.
  • She needed to dry her hair quickly before leaving.

Examples of usage

  • She wipes the table after every meal.
  • He wiped his hands on a towel.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • The first wet wipes were invented in the 1960s, originally designed for cleaning hands in public places.
  • In the 1980s, disposable wipes became popular, changing how we think about cleaning and hygiene.
  • Today, wipes come in different types, including baby wipes, disinfectant wipes, and facial cleansing wipes.

Health & Safety

  • Disinfectant wipes can kill bacteria and viruses, making them vital during flu seasons and pandemics.
  • Using wipes for cleaning can reduce the spread of germs when soap and water arenโ€™t available.
  • Choosing wipes that are eco-friendly can help minimize waste and environmental impact.

Cultural Impact

  • Wipes are now considered essential products in many households, especially during travel and outdoor activities.
  • The rise of wipes in pop culture represents a shift towards convenience and quick-clean solutions in modern lifestyles.
  • Commercial advertisements often depict wipes as must-have items for busy parents and professionals alike.

Science & Technology

  • The formulation of wipes involves the use of polymers and preservatives to keep them moist and effective for cleaning.
  • Some wipes use advanced fabric technology that enhances durability and cleaning ability while being soft on the skin.
  • Research into biodegradable materials is leading to the creation of more sustainable wipes designed to decompose faster.

Environmental Considerations

  • Many traditional wipes contribute to ocean and landfill pollution, leading to calls for more sustainable packaging options.
  • Biodegradable wipes are made from materials that break down easier, reducing long-term environmental impact.
  • Proper disposal techniques are encouraged to minimize the environmental footprint of disposable cleaning products.

Origin of 'wipes'

The word 'wipes' originates from the Old English word 'wipian', meaning to rub. Over time, it evolved to refer to the act of cleaning or drying surfaces with cloths or tissues. The use of wipes for cleaning purposes became more popular in the modern era due to their convenience and effectiveness in maintaining hygiene.

See also: wipe, wiping.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,310, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.