# Flushing

/ˈfɫəʃɪŋ/ (US) · /flˈʌʃɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flushing
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. cleaning with water

verb · CEFR B1

using a sudden flow of water to clean something, like a toilet or a pipe.

For teachers: the present participle of 'flush', referring to the act of cleansing or clearing a space by a sudden flow of water.

- He was flushing the pipes with hot water to clear out the dirt.
- The maintenance crew spent the afternoon flushing the cooling system to remove mineral deposits that had accumulated over the winter.

Usage: Often used with 'out' or 'through'.

### 2. face turning red

noun · CEFR B2

when your face or skin becomes red and hot, usually because you are embarrassed, angry, or ill.

For teachers: a sudden reddening of the face or skin caused by increased blood flow, often triggered by emotional or physiological factors.

- She felt a sudden flushing of her cheeks when the teacher called her name.
- The patient reported frequent facial flushing and a sensation of heat, which the doctor identified as a side effect of the new medication.

## Examples

- He is flushing the toilet after use.
- The plumber recommended flushing the pipes with hot water to clear out the remaining debris.
- By flushing the cooling system regularly, you prevent the buildup of mineral deposits that could eventually lead to engine overheating during long journeys.

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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.