scrub out
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To leave a surgical operating theater where one has previously scrubbed in.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
17 May 2012, New Scientist, New device lets surgeons check medical images during an operation without having to scrub out.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To scrub until all uncleanliness has been removed.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “scrub out” mean?
To leave a surgical operating theater where one has previously scrubbed in.
Is “scrub out” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.