Synonyms of scrub

scrub 1 of 2

verb

as in to scrap

to put an end to (something planned or previously agreed to)

the outdoor art project was scrubbed when the organizers found out they needed permission from city hall

Synonyms & Similar Words

• scrap
• cancel
• abandon
• revoke
• repeal
• abort
• recall
• call off
• drop
• rescind
• call
• withdraw
• reverse
• cry off
• halt
• suspend
• terminate
• nullify
• end
• write off
• invalidate
• retract
• roll back
• take back
• stop
• interrupt
• abrogate
• void
• annul
• discontinue
• hold back
• recant
• relinquish
• break off
• surrender
• countermand
• give up

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• keep
• continue
• engage
• start
• begin
• initiate
• promise
• undertake
• pledge
• take up
• commence
• take on

scrub

2 of 2

noun

ˈskrəb 

as in toy

something (such as an animal) much smaller than others of its kind

that scrub of a mutt turned out to be the smartest dog we ever had

Synonyms & Similar Words

• toy
• dwarf
• diminutive
• mini
• midget
• mite
• miniature
• runt
• peewee
• pygmy

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• giant
• monster
• mammoth
• jumbo
• colossus
• whale
• behemoth
• titan
• leviathan
• whopper

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of scrub

Verb

Surfaces were scrubbed down, while dishes were washed and categorized into what Voraotsady had brought and what belonged to OK YAKI. — Leah Asmelash, CNN Money, 19 Sep. 2026

Focus on crevices and edges where grease and debris tend to accumulate, but avoid scrubbing too harshly. — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 17 Sep. 2026

Noun

Bowe advised using a gentle cleanser so skin does not feel squeaky-clean afterward, swapping gritty scrubs for hydrating exfoliating serums and skipping fragrances and essential oils. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 17 Sep. 2026

Removing product buildup and dead skin cells, whether with a mitt or a scrub like the new Dove Serum+ Radiance Body Scrub, helps smooth and prime your skin for the rest of your routine. — Ellie Beeck, PEOPLE, 16 Sep. 2026