apply vs swob

apply is not a noun while swob is a noun.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
apply	No	No	Yes	No
swob	Yes	No	Yes	No

As verbs, swob is a hyponym of apply; that is, swob is a word with a more specific, narrower meaning than apply:

Other hyponyms of apply include dab, swab, daub, gum, dress, cream, cold-cream, putty, sponge on, clap on, slam on, slap on.

apply (noun)	swob (noun)
	cleaning implement consisting of absorbent material fastened to a handle; for cleaning floors

apply (verb)	swob (verb)
ask (for something)	wash with a swab or a mop
refer (a word or name) to a person or thing	apply (usually a liquid) to a surface
put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose
coat, cover or smear a surface with
give or convey physically
avail oneself to
ensure observance of laws and rules
apply oneself to
be pertinent or relevant or applicable
be applicable to; as to an analysis