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

Example Sentences

“They believe when this is done they can mop up al Qaeda units,” he said.

From The Daily Beast

Back at the hospital, an orderly took advantage of a brief break to spray the floor and mop up blood.

From The Daily Beast

The media has made much of the extravagant mop-up and security arrangements ahead of the meeting.

From The Daily Beast

Being made to mop up when the bathroom plumbing breaks down at the Edwards house?

From The Daily Beast

I'd mop up this stuff about organization and management mighty quick, for that business stuff comes natural to me.

From Project Gutenberg

"Me mop up all de water," grinned Ching, looking the coolest person aboard the launch.

From Project Gutenberg

I'll mop up all the blood spilt with a cambric handkerchief.

From Project Gutenberg

I got a light, and proceeded to mop up, as best I could, and then endeavoured to find a dry place to sleep in.

From Project Gutenberg

"Congratulations on the mop-up, which I understand was one hundred point oh oh oh percent," the officer said.

From Project Gutenberg