brush
noun
Definitions of brush noun
tool
- A2Countable
An object with short, stiff pieces of hair, plastic, or wire attached to a base or handle, used for cleaning, arranging hair, or painting.
I can't locate my brush, but I still have my comb.
A hard brush is needed to remove the rust.
A brush specifically designed for clothes.
- A2Countable
Used as a combining form to create other words.
A hairbrush.
A toothbrush.
A paintbrush.
- B2Singular
An act of cleaning or smoothing with a brush.
These shoes require a thorough brushing.
Remember to give your hair a brush before leaving.
touch
- CountableUsually singular
A quick, light touch or contact.
He felt the soft brush of her hand against his.
bushes
- Uncountable
Small, low bushes or the wild land they grow in.
We saw a wild rabbit concealed within the brush.
The dry conditions increased the possibility of brush fires.
- Uncountable
brushwood
tail
- Countable
The tail of a fox.
Phrases of brush noun
- a brush with something
An instance of experiencing something, or nearly experiencing something, often unpleasant.
• His last brush with death on the highway left him with lingering fears.
verb
Definitions of brush verb
touch
- B2TransitiveIntransitiveVerb + adv/prep
To touch something quickly, lightly, or carelessly.
Charlotte brushed against him as she exited the room.
His lips lightly brushed her cheek before he departed.
- C1TransitiveVerb + adv/prep
To move something using a brush or your hand.
Jackie brushed her hair out of her face.
He brushed away a single tear.
She stood up and brushed the wrinkles out of her skirt.
clean
- A2Transitive
To clean something or make it smooth using a brush.
She wondered when he had last brushed his teeth.
She brushed her hair with slow, rhythmic strokes.
My pants were covered in mud, but I was able to brush them clean thankfully.
Phrasal Verbs of brush
- brush something off
to disregard someone's words or not consider something with seriousness
• She brushed off his criticism and continued to work her way.
- brush someone/something off
to clear dust or dirt off a person or object utilizing one's hands or a brush
• He brushed off the dust from the canvas using a brush.
- brush someone/something aside
to dismiss something without serious consideration, deeming it insignificant
• In the meeting, he brushed my suggestions aside, not taking them seriously.
- brush up (on) something
to enhance your understanding of a subject that you have previously studied but may not fully remember.
• Before the exam, I need to brush up on my math skills.
- brush past someone
to swiftly walk past an individual, typically to avoid conversation
• She decided to brush past her annoying old colleague at the party.