Mop

/mɒp/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A tool for cleaning floors, consisting of a long handle with a bundle of soft, absorbent material at one end.
She used a mop to clean the spilled juice off the kitchen floor.
A mass of hair or fur, especially when unkempt.
The dog had a mop of fur that required regular grooming.
verb
To clean or soak up a liquid from a surface with a mop.
He mopped the floor after the guests left to ensure it was tidy.
To wipe or clean with a cloth, sponge, etc.
She mopped the table with a damp cloth to remove the crumbs.

Etymology

Middle English 'moppe', probably related to the verb 'mop' meaning to wipe or absorb.

Common Phrases and Expressions

mop the floor
To clean the floor with a mop.
mop up
To remove liquid from a surface; to clean up a mess.
mop head
The absorbent part of a mop.

Related Words

broom
A tool for sweeping floors.
sponge
An absorbent material often used for cleaning.
cleaner
A substance used to clean.

Slang Meanings

A hairstyle resembling a mop; messy hair.
After a long day, my hair was just a total mop.
To mop the floor; to defeat someone easily.
They mopped the floor with the competition last night.