A small wad of cotton wrapped around the end of a small rod, made of wood, rolled paper, or plastic. The most common uses for cotton swabs include aural hygiene and cosmetics application.

plural of cotton swab

A water-soaked swab for cooling a gun in action and clearing away particles of powder, etc.

plural of fire swab

(nautical) A becket hitch applied to a swab.

plural of swab hitch

(US military, slang, derogatory) A member of the United States Navy.

plural of swab jockey