Brush Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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brush

[brʌʃ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

painting

A tool with bristles, wire, or other filaments, used for cleaning, grooming, or painting.

Synonyms

broom, duster, paintbrush.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
brush	Used for cleaning or grooming, typically with bristles set into a handle. She used a brush to clean the dust off the bookshelf. He grabbed a brush to tidy up his hair.
paintbrush	Used for applying paint. Generally, it has bristles attached to a handle. She picked up a paintbrush to start painting the wall. He used a fine paintbrush for detailed work on his model.
broom	Used for sweeping floors. Generally has long bristles and is attached to a long handle. She used the broom to sweep the kitchen floor. He picked up the broom to clean up the spilled dirt.
duster	Used for removing dust from surfaces. Typically a cloth or soft material. She wiped the table with a duster. He used a duster to clean the shelves.

Examples of usage

The artist used a brush to paint the masterpiece.
She gently brushed the dust off the table with a soft brush.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

hair

To use a brush to arrange and make neat.

Synonyms

comb, groom, tidy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
brush	Use when referring to light, quick contact or touch. She felt a brush of his hand on her shoulder The bird's wing made a brush against the window
comb	Use when referring to using a comb to untangle or arrange hair. Make sure to comb your hair properly before the interview She carries a comb in her handbag
groom	Use when referring to cleaning, brushing, and taking care of animals or oneself. Can also imply preparing someone or something for a specific role or task. She spends a lot of time grooming her dog every morning The company is grooming her for a managerial position
tidy	Use when referring to making something neat and orderly, often a room or space. He needs to tidy his room before the guests arrive She spent the afternoon tidying up the living room

Examples of usage

She brushed her long hair before going to bed.
He brushed his teeth after every meal.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'brush'

The word 'brush' originated from the Old French word 'broisse', which meant a bunch of twigs. Over time, it evolved to refer to the tool we now know as a brush. Brushes have been used for various purposes throughout history, from grooming animals to painting masterpieces.

See also: brushing, brushland, underbrush.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,676, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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4673 mad
4674 motives
4675 equitable
4676 brush
4677 alien
4678 commencement
4679 generating
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