The word "swab" refers to a small absorbent material, like a cotton ball or a piece of cloth, that is used to clean or collect samples from surfaces or parts of the body. Full definition
Although it is possible to send cotton swabs of nasal secretions and eye drainage to certain laboratories for Herpes - 1 virus isolation - but this is not commonly done. (2ndchance.info)
We also sent in cheek swabs from two potential «fathers». (newscientist.com)
Donâ $ ™ t use cotton swabs in cleansing your babyâ $ ™ s ears or skin. (newbornbabyzone.com)