brush back

The phrase "brush back" originated in baseball but has since found use in everyday language with various meanings.

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Definition

B2Baseball

(sports)To throw a pitch close to a batter to intimidate or force them away from the plate.

Example

  • The pitcher decided to brush back the batter to gain control of the game.

B1General

(everyday)To move or push something backward with a brushing motion.

Example

  • She brushed back her hair to keep it out of her eyes.

B2Social Interaction

(informal)To reject or dismiss someone or something in a brusque or curt manner.

Example

  • He brushed back the reporter's question with a quick remark.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "brush back":

brush downbrush outbrush upbrush offbrush asidedry brushingbrush wheelpush backwire brushrub uppull backbroom upbrushback pitchdraw backsponge brushbottle brushrub up againstkeep backrow backrub alongtouch upknock backdust offhit backsweep asidebutt up