scrub
scrub1 / skrəb/ • v. (scrubbed, scrub·bing) [tr.] rub (someone or something) hard so as to clean them, typically with a brush and water: he had to scrub the floor she was scrubbing herself down at the sink | [intr.] she scrubbed furiously at the plates. ∎ (scrub something away/off) remove dirt by rubbing hard: it took ages to scrub off the muck. ∎ [intr.] (scrub up) thoroughly clean one's hands and arms, esp. before performing surgery: the doctor scrubbed up and put on a protective gown. ∎ inf. cancel or abandon (something): opposition leaders suggested she should scrub the trip to China. ∎ remove impurities from (gas or vapor). ∎ [intr.] (of a rider) rub the arms and legs urgently on a horse's neck and flanks to urge it to move faster.• n. 1. an act of scrubbing something or someone: give the floor a good scrub.2. a semiabrasive cosmetic lotion applied to the face or body in order to cleanse the skin.3. (scrubs) informal term for scrub suit.DERIVATIVES: scrub·ba·ble adj.scrub2 • n. 1. vegetation consisting mainly of brushwood or stunted forest growth. ∎ land covered with such vegetation.2. [as adj.] denoting a shrubby or small form of a plant: scrub apple trees. ∎ denoting an animal of inferior breed or physique: a scrub bull.3. inf. an insignificant or contemptible person. ∎ (in sports) a player not among the best or most skilled.DERIVATIVES: scrub·by adj.