What does squeegee mean?
A squeegee is a cleaning tool with a rubber or flexible edge mounted on a handle, traditionally used to remove water from windows. It is especially associated with cleaning glass after it has been washed, because drawing the blade across the surface can leave the glass clearer and freer of streaks than a cloth. The word is also used as a verb: to squeegee a window or floor means to clean it with this tool. In everyday speech, squeegee can refer either to the whole tool or to its working blade. It is common in both British and American English, although its everyday use is especially associated with window cleaning, cars, shower screens, and other smooth surfaces. The word is practical and recognizable, with a slightly informal tone when used as a verb.
A long-handled tool with a flexible blade or edge used to remove water and cleaning solution from windows and other flat surfaces.
"He drew the squeegee across the shop window."
The term may refer to the complete tool or, informally, to its removable blade.
To clean a flat surface by drawing a squeegee across it, especially to remove water or cleaning solution.
"They squeegeed the patio doors after washing them."
Usually used in practical or informal contexts.
Used when referring to multiple squeegee tools or blades.
"The cleaners replaced the squeegees on their equipment."
A squeegee turns a streaky, water-covered window into a clear one with a few decisive strokes.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does squeegee come from?
The word squeegee is an English lexical item that developed in the 19th century for a device used to scrape water from flat surfaces. Its precise historical derivation is not entirely certain, and the word is often treated as an alteration or development of an earlier form associated with the idea of squeaking or slipping. Modern dictionaries use the spelling squeegee for the tool, while squeegy is also encountered.
Related word forms
How squeegee is actually used
As a verb, squeegee is informal or practical rather than formal. The spelling can also be written as squeegy, but squeegee is the more common form.
Easily confused with squeegee
A squeegee is the complete cleaning tool, while a squeegee blade is the removable rubber or flexible strip that touches the surface.