wash-cloth

A child uses a soft wash-cloth to clean their face.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small cloth for washing: A "wash-cloth" is a small piece of fabric, typically made of terry cloth or cotton, used for washing the body, especially the face and hands, during bathing or personal hygiene routines.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She used a soft wash-cloth to clean her face gently. (A small cloth for washing the face.)
  • He grabbed a wash-cloth from the bathroom shelf to scrub his arms. (A cloth for washing the body during a bath.)

Advanced Usage

• "to use a wash-cloth": to employ a wash-cloth for cleaning or applying soap to the skin.
  • After applying soap to the wash-cloth, he lathered his back. (He used the cloth to distribute soap.)

Variants and Related Words

• Washcloth (n, alternative spelling): the same as "wash-cloth," often written as a single word.

  • I prefer a white washcloth for my face. (A small cloth for washing.)

• Face cloth (n): a synonym for wash-cloth, specifically used for washing the face.

  • She rinsed the face cloth in warm water. (A small cloth for facial cleansing.)

Synonyms

• Face cloth: a small cloth for washing the face.
• Flannel: a soft, absorbent cloth used for washing (chiefly British English).
• Sponge cloth: a type of cloth used for washing, though often larger.

Related Idioms

• "a clean wash-cloth": a fresh, unused wash-cloth, often used metaphorically to mean a fresh start or new beginning.
  • He felt like a clean wash-cloth after his morning shower. (He felt refreshed and renewed.)