pipe cleaner

American  

noun

1. a short length of twisted flexible wires covered with tufted fabric, used to clean the stem of a smoker's pipe and for various handicrafts.

---

pipe cleaner British  

noun

1. a short length of thin wires twisted so as to hold tiny tufts of yarn: used to clean the stem of a tobacco pipe

---

Etymology

Origin of pipe cleaner

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

A pipe cleaner can be very helpful for these soft rubber bits as well, but due to its metal rod core, it should not be used on much else.

From The Verge • Nov. 9, 2021

Many people, he said, are eager to learn about plovers, which are undeniably cute — their chicks look like a kindergartner’s art project, a pair of cotton balls glued to pipe cleaner legs.

From New York Times • Sep. 6, 2021

Ms Keith's fidgeting tool of choice is a pipe cleaner - simple, and quiet, if a little odd.

From BBC • Jul. 22, 2019

In his early scenes, Forky’s alarming new organs and appendages seem temporary at best: his pipe cleaner isn’t securely tied and he’s got a loose googly eye.

From Slate • Jun. 23, 2019

This time he held out on the palm of his hand—a pipe cleaner.

From "Murder on the Orient Express" by Agatha Christie