comb

play

noun \ˈkōm\

Definition of comb

1a : a toothed instrument used especially for adjusting, cleaning, or confining hairb : a structure resembling such a comb; especially : any of several toothed devices used in handling or ordering textile fibersc : currycomb
2a : a fleshy crest on the head of the domestic chicken and other domestic birdsb : something (such as the ridge of a roof) resembling the comb of a cock
3 : honeycomb

play \ˈkōmd\ adjective

play \ˈkōm-ˌlīk\ adjective

Middle English, from Old English camb; akin to Old High German kamb comb, Greek gomphos tooth

First Known Use: before 12th century

verb

transitive verb
1 : to draw a comb through for the purpose of arranging or cleaning
2 : to pass across with a scraping or raking action
3a : to eliminate (as with a comb) by a thorough going-overb : to search or examine systematically police are combing the city
4 : to use in a combing action
intransitive verb
1 of a wave or its crest : to roll over or break into foam
2 : to make a thorough search comb through the classified ads

14th Century

14th century

abbreviation

play

noun

: a flat piece of plastic or metal with a row of thin teeth that is used for making hair neat
: a device that is used for separating or straightening fibers (such as wool fibers)
: a soft part on top of the head of some birds (such as chickens)

verb

play

noun \ˈkōm\

1 : a toothed implement used to smooth and arrange the hair or worn in the hair to hold it in place
2 : a soft fleshy part on top of the head of a chicken or some related birds
3 : honeycomb