To brush up

Brush \Brush\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Brushed} (br[u^]sht); p. pr.
   & vb. n. {Brushing}.] [OE. bruschen; cf. F. brosser. See
   {Brush}, n.]
   1. To apply a brush to, according to its particular use; to
      rub, smooth, clean, paint, etc., with a brush. "A' brushes
      his hat o' mornings." --Shak.
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   2. To touch in passing, or to pass lightly over, as with a
      brush.
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            Some spread their sailes, some with strong oars
            sweep
            The waters smooth, and brush the buxom wave.
                                                  --Fairfax.
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            Brushed with the kiss of rustling wings. --Milton.
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   3. To remove or gather by brushing, or by an act like that of
      brushing, or by passing lightly over, as wind; -- commonly
      with off.
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            As wicked dew as e'er my mother brushed
            With raven's feather from unwholesome fen. --Shak.
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            And from the boughts brush off the evil dew.
                                                  --Milton.
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   {To brush aside}, to remove from one's way, as with a brush.
      

   {To brush away}, to remove, as with a brush or brushing
      motion.

   {To brush up}, to paint, or make clean or bright with a
      brush; to cleanse or improve; to renew.
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            You have commissioned me to paint your shop, and I
            have done my best to brush you up like your
            neighbors.                            --Pope.
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