# airbrush

/ˈeəbɹʌʃ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/airbrush
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.