Search Dictionary
Definition of brush

brush

/brʌʃ/
brush

Plural:brushes
•
Adjective:brushy
•
Past Simple:brushed
•
Past Participle:brushed
•
Present Participle:brushing
JUMP TO:

brush Lexical Profile

brush Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An implement consisting of bristles, hair, or wire set into a block or handle, used for sweeping, smoothing, scrubbing, or painting.

Example

"She used a soft brush to remove the dust from the delicate painting."


2

A brief, light touch or grazing in passing.

Example

"He felt the brush of a spider web against his face as he walked through the dark forest."


3

Dense growth of bushes, shrubs, and small trees; scrub.

Example

"The rabbit quickly darted into the thick brush to escape the pursuing predator."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for brush

• verb

1

To clean, polish, smooth, or apply a liquid to something using a bristled implement.

Example

"The dentist reminded the children to brush their teeth twice a day."


2

To touch lightly and briefly in passing.

Example

"Her hand brushed against mine as she reached across the table for the coffee cup."


3

To push something away or remove it with a quick sweeping movement of the hand.

Example

"He brushed a stray lock of hair out of his eyes before continuing his speech."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for brush

• Rhymes for brush

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'brusshe', derived from Old French 'brosse' (brushwood, brush), which is of obscure origin, possibly Vulgar Latin or Celtic.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Brush. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/brush
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.