scouring
noun
scour·ing
ˈskau̇(-ə)r-iŋ 
1
: material removed by scouring or cleaning
2
: the lowest rank of society
—usually used in plural
Examples of scouring in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
While sponges and gentle scrubbers are safe for stainless steel, do not use steel wool or abrasive scouring pads, which can leave permanent scratches.
—
Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 26 Feb. 2026
Don't use scouring powders or abrasive creams, or rust removers.
—Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Feb. 2026
Why Fireplace Ashes Can Be Helpful for Cleaning When used correctly, fireplace ash can work similarly to a very fine scouring powder.
—Asia London Palomba, The Spruce, 7 Feb. 2026
Avoid using scouring pads or abrasive sponges.
—Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 30 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for scouring
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Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 26 Feb. 2026
Don't use scouring powders or abrasive creams, or rust removers.
—Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Feb. 2026
Why Fireplace Ashes Can Be Helpful for Cleaning When used correctly, fireplace ash can work similarly to a very fine scouring powder.
—Asia London Palomba, The Spruce, 7 Feb. 2026
Avoid using scouring pads or abrasive sponges.
—Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 30 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for scouring
Cite this Entry
“Scouring.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scouring. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.
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