verb (used with object), wiped, wip·ing.
- to rub lightly with or on a cloth, towel, paper, the hand, etc., in order to clean or dry the surface of: He wiped the furniture with a damp cloth.
- to rub or draw (something) over a surface, as in cleaning or drying.
- to remove by rubbing with or on something (usually followed by away, off, out, etc.): Wipe the dirt off your shoes. Wipe the dust from the pictures.
- to remove as if by rubbing (usually followed by away, off, etc.): Wipe that smile off your face!
- to erase, as from existence or memory (often followed by from): to wipe a thought from one’s mind.
-
- to erase (magnetic tape, a recording, etc.)
- to delete the entire contents and settings of (a digital storage device, mobile device, etc.):She remotely wiped her computer after it was stolen.
- Plumbing.
- to apply (solder in a semifluid state) by spreading with leather or cloth over the part to be soldered.
- to form (a joint) in this manner.
- Machinery. (of a rotating shaft or the like) to melt the brasses of (a bearing) through friction.
- Australian Slang. to refuse to have anything to do with; reject; dismiss.