squeegee

American  

[skwee-jee, skwee-jee] / ˈskwi dʒi, skwiˈdʒi /

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.

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verb (used with object)

squeegeed, squeegeeing

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 British  

/ 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

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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

Etymology

Origin of squeegee

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

Example Sentences

Now, 30 years after it premiered here, also around Thanksgiving, the digital squeegee has been applied to “Anthology,” the band’s own multi-part video memoir.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 26, 2025

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

From New York Times • Sep. 1, 2023

“The state would have you believe this case is about squeegee boys,” defense attorney J. Wyndal Gordon told jurors in his opening statement.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 18, 2023

By noon course attendants were around the greens and fairways trying to squeegee excess moisture.

From Washington Times • May 20, 2023

The man tucked the squeegee and chamois in his back pant pocket, picked up the bucket and brush, and headed toward the van.

From "Breaking Through" by Francisco Jiménez

Related Words

• dab
• swab
• wipe