Industrial Cleaning Terms

noun a substance that is able to dissolve other substances

adjective able to dissolve other substances

• The scientist used a specific solvent to dissolve the compound.
• I need to get some solvent to clean up this mess.
• Hey, pass me that solvent so I can fix this quickly.
• Communication is the solvent that dissolves misunderstandings in relationships.

noun a small piece of absorbent material attached to the end of a stick or wire, used for cleaning or applying medication

verb to clean or apply medication with a swab

• The nurse used a sterile swab to collect a sample for testing.
• I had to swab the inside of my cheek for a DNA test.
• He swabbed the spill with a paper towel.
• The artist used a swab of paint to create a beautiful masterpiece.

noun the act of cleaning something using water and soap or other detergents

verb present participle of the verb 'wash', which means to clean something using water and soap or other detergents

• The washing of hands is an important step in preventing the spread of germs.
• I'll do the washing later, I'm too tired right now.
• I hate doing the washing, it's such a chore.
• Her tears were like a cleansing washing of her soul.