Synonyms for

Brushes

Verb / ˈbrʌʃɪz / Another word for brushes — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Brushes are tools used for cleaning or painting. They have bristles or fibers attached to a handle.

Synonyms & similar words

clash brush copse encounter sweep thicket coppice brushing skirmish brushwood lighttouch brooms scrubs sweeps whisks dusters mops paintbrushes rollers applicators daubers wands paddles swabs toothbrushes hairbrushes combs bristles fibers hairs

Synonyms by register

Formal

sweeps cleans polishes scrubs

Informal

wipes dabs spruces up tidies

Literary

caresses strokes touches

Antonyms

neglects ignores avoids shuns disregards

Common collocations

  • paint brushes
  • hair brushes
  • cleaning brushes
  • makeup brushes
  • brushes aside
  • brushes off
  • brushes with fame
  • brushes against

Word family

noun brush
verb brush
adjective brushy

Usage note

The verb 'brush' can be used literally (to clean or apply something) or figuratively (to dismiss or have a brief encounter). Be mindful of the context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. I use a brush to clean my teeth.
  2. My mom brushes her hair every morning.
  3. She brushes the dust off the furniture.
  4. I need a brush to paint this picture.
  5. The artist used different brushes to create different textures in the painting.

Quotes

  • I like to paint with brushes because I can create different textures. - Unknown
  • Kind words are like a brush, they can color a whole day. - Unknown
  • I never met a man I didn't like until I met a man who didn't like to brush his teeth. - Unknown

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