COTTON SWAB Meaning and
Definition
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A cotton swab, also known as a cotton bud or Q-tip (a trademarked brand name), is a small tool consisting of a thin stick with a cotton wad at one or both ends. Primarily used for personal care and hygiene purposes, it is typically made up of a wooden or plastic stick and a cotton head. The cotton swab is a versatile item with numerous applications in various settings.
Commonly used in personal grooming, a cotton swab is particularly known for its ability to clean delicate areas like the ears or the crevices around the nose. It is cautiously inserted into the ear canal to gently clean out excess wax, although medical professionals generally discourage deep insertion to avoid potential damage to the eardrum. The cotton swab is also employed to apply or remove cosmetics, clean wounds, or apply medicated ointments on the skin surface. In addition, it finds usage in arts and crafts, as well as for applying paints or touch-ups in small areas due to its precise detailing ability.
However, it is essential to note that cotton swabs should be used with caution and care to avoid potential injuries. It is crucial not to insert the swab too deeply into any opening or apply excessive pressure, as this may result in harm or injury. Nevertheless, when used correctly, the cotton swab serves as a practical and versatile tool for a wide range of personal hygiene, grooming, and artistic purposes.
Common Misspellings for COTTON SWAB
- xotton swab
- votton swab
- fotton swab
- dotton swab
- citton swab
- cktton swab
- cltton swab
- cptton swab
- c0tton swab
- c9tton swab
- corton swab
- cofton swab
- cogton swab
- coyton swab
- co6ton swab
- co5ton swab
- cotron swab
- cotfon swab
- cotgon swab
- cotyon swab
Etymology of COTTON SWAB
The word "cotton swab" is composed of two parts: "cotton" and "swab".
"Cotton" comes from the Old French word "coton", which ultimately traces back to the Arabic word "qutn" or "qutun". This term referred to the soft, fibrous substance obtained from the cotton plant.
"Swab", on the other hand, originates from the Middle English word "swabbe", which meant a mop or a cleaning implement. It is believed to have come from the Old English word "swæbbian", meaning to swab or wipe.
Therefore, "cotton swab" refers to a cleaning instrument made with a small piece of cotton attached to a stick or handle, often used for hygiene or application of medicine.
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