Flushing: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used when someone becomes red in the face due to emotions such as embarrassment, anger, or excitement. It can also refer to the process of cleaning something by causing water to flow through it.

• After realizing her mistake, she felt the heat of flushing across her cheeks.
• The plumber was busy flushing the pipes to remove any blockages.

Used specifically to describe the reddening of someone's face due to emotions like embarrassment or shyness. It has a more delicate and positive connotation compared to 'flushing'.

• She couldn't stop blushing when he complimented her.
• During her speech, her face was blushing with nervousness and excitement.

A more general term used to describe the process of something turning red, either in reference to skin, objects, or natural phenomena. It is more neutral and less specific to emotions.

• The reddening sky signaled the approaching sunset.
• Her reddening cheeks were evident during the heated argument.

Describes the action of becoming red in the face due to strong emotions or physical exertion. It can also mean to cleanse by a rapid flow of water.

• His face began to flush when he heard the unexpected news.
• Make sure to flush the toilet after use.

This is often used in plumbing to describe the process of cleaning out a system by forcing water through it. It's frequently associated with toilets and pipes.

• We need to start flushing the pipes to get rid of any debris
• The toilet is not flushing properly

Used in the context of purifying or cleaning, often related to hygiene or skincare. It implies a thorough and careful cleaning.

• She uses a gentle soap for cleansing her face every night
• The cleansing process detoxifies the skin

Typically used to describe washing something quickly with clean water to remove soap or residue. Often used in contexts like cooking, cleaning, or personal hygiene.

• Rinsing the vegetables is important before eating them
• After shampooing, she spends a few minutes rinsing her hair

This describes a situation where a large amount of water covers an area that is usually dry. It can have a negative connotation, especially in the context of natural disasters.

• The heavy rains caused flooding in the basement
• Coastal areas are at risk of flooding during the storm

This term is often used when talking about cleaning or clearing something out, especially in plumbing or technical systems. It's also used for getting rid of unwanted data or tasks in computing.

• She was flushing the toilet after using it.
• The system is flushing old cache files.

This word is appropriate when you are throwing something away because it's no longer needed or wanted. It can be used in both physical and abstract contexts.

• He was discarding old clothes that didn't fit anymore.
• The scientist discarded the hypothesis after the experiment failed.

Use this word when talking about giving one thing and receiving another in return. It's applicable in various situations, including trading, communication, or even replacing items.

• They were exchanging gifts during the holiday party.
• The two friends spent hours exchanging stories about their childhood.

This term is best when you are taking something away and putting something else in its place, often because the original item is broken, outdated, or insufficient.

• She is replacing the old batteries with new ones.
• The company is replacing their outdated software with a more modern solution.