absorbent cotton

noun

1. cotton for surgical dressings, cosmetic purposes, etc., made absorbent by removing the natural wax.

absorbent cotton

noun

1. a US term for cotton wool

Word History and Origins

Origin of absorbent cotton¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90

Example Sentences

They must be a thick absorbent cotton but never terry.

From Los Angeles Times

Each set includes two bath towels, two hand towels and two washcloths in soft, absorbent cotton terry.

From Seattle Times

Paddis replaced absorbent cotton towelling nappies, which had to be washed after each use.

From BBC

Exhausted doctors at Greece's 133 state hospitals cite a lack of staff as well as basic supplies such as absorbent cotton, catheters, gloves and paper used to cover examination beds.

From Reuters

A quantity of bandages, lint, absorbent cotton, etc., completes this essential equipment.

From Project Gutenberg