Brush

Definition

Brush is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a tool with bristles, wire, or other filaments used for cleaning, grooming, or applying substances like paint. It can also refer to a light touch or contact, as well as dense undergrowth or shrubbery. As a verb, it means to clean, groom, or apply something with a brush, or to lightly touch or graze against something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /brʌʃ/
• Respelling: bruhsh

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /brʌʃ/
• Respelling: bruhsh

The pronunciation of "brush" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "brush" originates from Middle English "brusshe," referring to a shrub or thicket. It is derived from Old French "brosse," meaning "brushwood," which led to the term for the cleaning or grooming tool made from natural materials. The verb form evolved to describe the act of using a brush or making light contact.

Derivatives

• Brushing (noun/verb)
• Brushy (adjective)
• Brushwork (noun)
• Brushwood (noun)
• Brush-off (noun)

Synonyms

• Swipe
• Graze
• Touch

Antonyms

• Hold
• Grasp
• Clutch

Usage

The term "brush" is widely used in contexts such as personal grooming, cleaning, art, and light contact. For example, "She used a hair brush to untangle her hair," or "He felt a slight brush against his arm."

Related Terms

• Comb: A tool for untangling or arranging hair.
• Sweep: The act of moving or clearing away something with a sweeping motion.
• Scrub: The act of cleaning something vigorously.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A tool with bristles, wire, or filaments, used for cleaning, grooming, or applying substances: Commonly used for personal care, painting, or surface cleaning.
  • Example: "She picked up a brush to paint the canvas."
• A light touch or contact: Refers to a gentle or passing contact with an object or person.
  • Example: "He felt the brush of her hand on his shoulder."
• A dense growth of shrubs or undergrowth: Refers to thickets or bushes, often in natural landscapes.
  • Example: "The rabbit darted into the brush to hide."

Verb

• To clean, groom, or apply something with a brush: Used in contexts involving personal grooming, painting, or applying substances.
  • Example: "He brushed his teeth before bed."
• To lightly touch or graze against: Describes the action of making a brief, gentle contact.
  • Example: "The dog’s tail brushed against the table."