mop-up

[ mop-uhp ]

noun

1. the act, process, or an instance of mopping up; completion of an operation or action.

mop up

verb

1. to clean with a mop
2. informal.
   to complete (a task, etc)
3. military to clear (remaining enemy forces) after a battle, as by killing, taking prisoner, etc

noun

1. the act or an instance of mopping up

Word History and Origins

Origin of mop-up¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; noun use of verb phrase mop up

Example Sentences

Josh Inglis kept Australia steady before he was bowled trying to reverse scoop Curran and it was left to Archer and Mahmood to mop up the tail.

From BBC

He has once again been put in the sorry position of trying to mop up after his running mate.

From Los Angeles Times

If Sri Lanka can mop up the tail on Friday, they have the opportunity to bat themselves into the game.

From BBC

The “America’s Got Talent” judge rushed to pick her up and get her back on the bed, trying to mop up the blood with towels.

From Los Angeles Times

But in a case last year, the American Civil Liberties Union represented a Nevada crew sent to mop up a wildfire hotspot.

From Seattle Times