noun

1. A toothed implement for grooming the hair or (formerly) for keeping it in place.

2. A machine used in separating choice cotton fibers from worsted cloth fibers.

3. A fleshy growth on the top of the head of some birds and reptiles; crest.

Synonyms: cockscomb, crest

verb

1. (especially of hair or fur) To groom with a toothed implement; chiefly with a comb.

   “I need to comb my hair before we leave the house”

2. To separate choice cotton fibers from worsted cloth fibers.

3. To search thoroughly as if raking over an area with a comb.

   “Police combed the field for evidence after the assault”