brush 1 of 3

Definition of brushnext
as in encounter
a brief clash between enemies or rivals the two advance parties had a brush, but no one was wounded

Synonyms & Similar Words

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brush

2 of 3

verb (1)

brush

3 of 3

verb (2)

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of brush
Noun
Kardv Cordless Vacuum Cleaner This slim tool comes with a dust brush and crevice tool to target stairs, curtains, and upholstery. Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026 For an artisanal twist, look no further than Ezcaray Matisse throw that looks as if Georgia O’Keeffe applied the paint brush strokes herself. Kristine Hansen, Architectural Digest, 8 Jan. 2026
Verb
While many Americans may brush off the recommendations, the guidelines are intended as a public health tool to inform health-care providers, federal agencies, policymakers and nutrition experts. Amelia Lucas, CNBC, 7 Jan. 2026 But that glass would be brushed away by street sweepers cleaning up after a parade. Dan Pompei, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for brush
Recent Examples of Synonyms for brush
encounter
Noun
  • So commences a night of harrowing encounters and trauma both physical and mental, starting with Ron and Mike’s trip to meet Oliver at a bar after one of his shows.
    Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 10 Nov. 2025
  • Huynh’s encounter demonstrates the difficulty people have just figuring out what agency an officer represents, especially since most DHS agencies do not have standard uniforms.
    Andy Rose 19 hr ago, CNN Money, 9 Nov. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Brush.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/brush. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

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