To peel or remove the bark, husk, or outer layer from something.
To surgically remove the surface layer, membrane, or fibrous cover of an organ etc.
Having had the cortex removed
To use a swab on something, or clean something with a swab.
A sailor; a swabby.
A naval officer's epaulet.
A small piece of soft, absorbent material, such as gauze, used to clean wounds, apply medicine, or take samples of body fluids. Often attached to a stick or wire to aid access.
A mop, especially on a ship.
A piece of material used for cleaning or sampling other items like musical instruments or guns.
A sample taken with a swab (piece of absorbent material).