wiper

Everyday

1. A wiper (windscreen wiper, windshield wiper in the US) is a long arm with a rubber blade that moves back and forth to clear rain from a car's front window. tree →
2. A wiper is anything used for wiping, like a cloth or wipe. tree →

In the lessons

In science and DT lessons, wipers are an example of a machine with simple back-and-forth motion. In everyday life and safety, working wipers help drivers see clearly in rain and snow. In stories, the swish of wipers sets a rainy, sleepy mood on a car journey. Phrases: «windscreen wipers», «turn on the wipers», «wiper blades».

Examples

• Dad turned on the wipers when it started to pour. tree →
• The wipers squeaked across the glass. tree →
• The wiper blade was worn and left streaks. tree →
• In the US they say windshield wipers. tree →
• I fell asleep listening to the wipers go swish, swish. tree →
• The car failed its check because one wiper was broken. tree →
• Someone tucked a leaflet under the wiper. tree →

Note

Countable noun. UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand: «windscreen wiper»; US and Canada: «windshield wiper». A «wiper» is not a «wipe» (a single damp cloth).