godan verb (-u), transitive verb
Physical wiping of a surface, liquid, or dirt. Often used for sweat, tears, or a table.
ハンカチで額の汗を拭った。
I wiped the sweat from my forehead with a handkerchief.
机の上のほこりを拭ってください。
Please wipe the dust off the desk.
godan verb (-u), transitive verb
get rid of; dispel; erase; remove
Metaphorical use: removing an abstract thing such as a feeling, impression, shame, or blemish. Often used with words like 汚名, 印象, or 不安.
彼は汚名を拭うために全力を尽くした。
He did his best to clear his name.
その笑顔が私の不安を拭ってくれた。
That smile dispelled my anxiety.