\ ˈskrəb 
\
\Definition of scrub
(Entry 1 of 3)
scrub
verbscrubbed; scrubbing
Definition of scrub (Entry 2 of 3)
b : to subject to friction : rub
2 : wash sense 6c(2)
1 : to use hard rubbing in cleaning
2 : to prepare for performing surgery by scrubbing oneself
scrub
noun (2)Definition of scrub (Entry 3 of 3)
2a : one that scrubs
b : a powerful and especially cosmetic cleanser
3 scrubs plural : loose-fitting clothing worn by hospital staff
surgical scrubs
Keep scrolling for more
Other Words from scrub
Verb
scrubbable \ ˈskrə-bə-bəl \ adjective
\ adjective
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
More Definitions for scrub
scrub
verbEnglish Language Learners Definition of scrub
: to rub (something) hard with a rough object or substance and often with soap in order to clean it
informal : to decide that (something, such as a game, performance, etc.) will not happen : to cancel (something)
See the full definition for scrub in the English Language Learners Dictionary
scrub
verb\ ˈskrəb \
\scrubbed; scrubbing
Kids Definition of scrub
(Entry 1 of 3)
: to rub hard in washing
scrub
nounKids Definition of scrub (Entry 2 of 3)
: a thick growth of small or stunted shrubs or trees
scrub
nounKids Definition of scrub (Entry 3 of 3)
: the act, an instance, or a period of rubbing hard in washing
scrub
verb\ ˈskrəb \
\scrubbed; scrubbing
Medical Definition of scrub
(Entry 1 of 2)
: to clean and disinfect (the hands and forearms) before participating in surgery
: to prepare for surgery by scrubbing oneself
scrub
nounMedical Definition of scrub (Entry 2 of 2)
1 : an act or instance of scrubbing a surgical scrub
2 plural : loose-fitting clothing worn by hospital staff
surgical scrubs
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on scrub
What made you want to look up scrub? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Farm Idioms Quiz
- What does 'poke' refer to in the expression 'pig in a poke'?
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
Share scrub
Time Traveler for scrub
The first known use of scrub was in the 14th century
See more words from the same century