bowk

transitive verb

ˈbük,

ˈbōk

-ed/-ing/-s

: to steep (textile materials) often with boiling in a bath usually containing lime, soda, or soap in order to cleanse before bleaching

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bouken (to soak)

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!