squeegee

[ skwee-jee, skwee-jee ]

noun

1. an implement edged with rubber or the like, for removing water from windows after washing, sweeping water from wet decks, etc.
2. a similar and smaller device, as for removing excess water from photographic negatives or prints or for forcing paint, ink, etc., through a porous surface, as in serigraphy.

verb (used with object)

, squee·geed, squee·gee·ing.

1. to sweep, scrape, or press with or as if with a squeegee.
2. to force (paint, ink, etc.) through a screen in making a silk-screen print.

squeegee

/ ˈskwiːdʒiː /

noun

1. an implement with a rubber blade used for wiping away surplus water from a surface, such as a windowpane
2. any of various similar devices used in photography for pressing the water out of wet prints or negatives or for squeezing prints onto a glazing surface

verb

1. to remove (water or other liquid) from (something) by use of a squeegee
2. tr to press down (a photographic print, etc) with a squeegee

Word History and Origins

Origin of squeegee¹

First recorded in 1835–45; originally a nautical term; of obscure origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of squeegee¹

C19: probably of imitative origin, influenced by squeeze

Example Sentences

Others have hit the streets, selling flowers and brandishing squeegees to wash car windows.

From New York Times

Edan McPherson dips a long squeegee into a pool of melted chocolate, draws the rubber blade across the coarse mesh.

From New York Times

Reynolds’ baseball bat could be considered a deadly weapon and his actions placed the squeegee workers in imminent danger, the attorneys said.

From Seattle Times

He said Reynolds swung the bat toward one squeegee worker moments before another opened fire.

From Seattle Times

Across the way underneath the stadium near the visitors’ clubhouse, others with squeegees worked to push the water-hail mixture into drains.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• sponge
• towel