Word
airbrush
Phoneticsair·brush
UK/ˈeəbɹʌʃ/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a small spray tool that uses air to put a fine mist of paint, ink or makeup on something. You use it for smooth, even colour on art, models or skin.
n. a small pneumatic spray device that applies paint, ink or cosmetics as a fine, controlled mist. Often used for illustration, photo retouching, model-making and cosmetic application.
Examples
“She uses an airbrush to paint the model plane.”
“The makeup artist uses an airbrush to give the actor smooth, even skin for filming.”
“The illustrator cleaned the airbrush carefully, knowing that even a tiny blockage would blur the fine gradients central to the portrait.”
Examples
simple
“She uses an airbrush to paint the model plane.”
contextual
“The makeup artist uses an airbrush to give the actor smooth, even skin for filming.”
complex
“The illustrator cleaned the airbrush carefully, knowing that even a tiny blockage would blur the fine gradients central to the portrait.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “airbrush” in context.
Verb
01. airbrush clogs
“My airbrush clogs easily if I do not thin the paint enough.”
noun + verb
02. airbrush sprays
“The airbrush sprays a light mist that covers the surface evenly.”
noun + verb
03. clean airbrush
“You must clean the airbrush right after painting to stop clogs.”
verb + noun
04. hold airbrush
“Hold the airbrush six inches from the paper for best results.”
verb + noun
Adjective
05. electric airbrush
“She uses an electric airbrush to apply even makeup for weddings.”
adj + noun
06. fine airbrush
“He chose a fine airbrush for thin lines on the illustration.”
adj + noun
Noun
07. airbrush kit
“He ordered a complete airbrush kit with compressor and paints.”
noun + noun
08. airbrush makeup
“Airbrush makeup stays smooth and lasts through long photo shoots.”
noun + noun
09. mist from airbrush
“A fine mist from the airbrush gave the sky a soft gradient.”
noun + prep + noun
10. apply makeup with an airbrush
“The artist can apply makeup with an airbrush in ten minutes.”
11. clean the airbrush after use
“Always clean the airbrush after use to keep it working well.”
12. learn to use an airbrush
“I want to learn to use an airbrush for my art class.”
Real-World Examples
“Campaigners are calling for restrictions on the way magazines airbrush photos.” “Cosmetic adverts featuring airbrushed images of actress Julia Roberts and model Christy Turlington have been banned by the advertising watchdog.” Word family
VERB
NOUN
PHRASAL VERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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