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

Portugal had risked a ropey offload in the tackle and the Glasgow centre mopped up.

From BBC

The fire was 36% contained by Monday morning as firefighters continued mopping up hot spots before winds could again pick up this week, authorities said.

From Los Angeles Times

“We’re continuing to work diligently... to get this fire suppressed, to get things mopped up, to get things closed up and get things things ready for people to come back in,” Gardner said.

From Los Angeles Times

But England have a problem mopping up the tail.

From BBC

A runner slumps in his chair as the sort of friend we all wish we had mops up his sick from the track with kitchen towel.

From BBC