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

In the weeks leading up to Tuesday’s election, online news articles about Carbonara and his ties to a controversial data center in Michigan were hit by bogus copyright claims that got dozens of stories scrubbed from the internet. — Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 18 Aug. 2026

Tip If there is heavy buildup on the filter, soak it in a solution of white vinegar and water for 10 minutes before scrubbing with soap and water. — Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 17 Aug. 2026

Noun

The successful run follows cold testing completed earlier this spring, where crews pressurized the primary circuit to scrub pipes and test for micro-leaks. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 18 Aug. 2026

Reaching for gritty scrubs or scratchy tools at night can make the problem worse. — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 17 Aug. 2026