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

Idioms and Phrases

Clear an area of remaining enemy troops after a victory, as in They left behind just one squadron to mop up . [c. 1900]

Perform the minor tasks that conclude a project or activity, as in Go ahead, I'll mop up these last invoices . [First half of 1900s] Both usages transfer the task of housecleaning with a mop to other kinds of cleanup.

Related Words

• accomplish 
• achieve 
• clinch 
• close 
• complete 
• conclude 
• do 
• end 
• make 
• play out 
• settle 
• stop 
• wind up 
• wrap up