brushings

Brushings refers to the act or process of brushing, typically involving a brush or similar tool. It is used to remove dirt, apply coatings, groom hair or fur, or finish a surface. The term is often used in its plural form to describe multiple instances of the action, or to refer to brushing as a technique in general.

In personal care, brushings include daily tooth brushing to remove dental plaque, hair brushing to detangle and style, and body or dry brushing as a skin-care practice. In cleaning and maintenance, they cover brushing clothing and upholstery to remove lint or dust, polishing shoes, and brushing pets to remove loose fur.

In crafts and art, brushings describe the application of paint, varnish, or glaze with a brush, as well as the resulting brush marks left on a surface. In industrial settings, the word is sometimes used informally to refer to carbon brushes and their wear in electric motors and generators; the standard term for the components is brushes, with wear described as brush wear.

Techniques and considerations vary by context. Manual brushings rely on the user’s motion and brush type, while powered brushing uses mechanical devices that can speed or standardize the process. Safety and care guidelines emphasize using appropriate brush types, applying suitable pressure, and replacing worn brushes regularly (for dental care, roughly every three to four months) to maintain effectiveness and avoid damage to surfaces or skin.

See also: brushing; dental hygiene; grooming; paint finishing.