toothbrush
/ˈtuːθ.brʌʃ/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A toothbrush is a small brush used for cleaning teeth. It usually has a handle and soft bristles.
- I bought a new toothbrush yesterday.
- Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush.
- Keep your toothbrush in a clean holder.
Adinary Nuance
A toothbrush is the tool you use to clean your teeth. It is not the cleaning action itself; that is brushing. It is also different from toothpaste, which is the paste you put on the toothbrush. In everyday English, toothbrush is the object, not the routine.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- bàn chải đánh răng
- Spanish
- cepillo de dientes
- Chinese
- 牙刷
- Japanese
- 歯ブラシ
- Korean
- 칫솔
Etymology
Toothbrush is made from tooth and brush. It has been used in English since the 18th century.
Common phrases
electric toothbrushmanual toothbrushtoothbrush holdertoothbrush bristles
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is toothbrush one word or two words?
- It is usually written as one word: toothbrush.
- What is the difference between a toothbrush and toothpaste?
- A toothbrush is the brush. Toothpaste is the cleaning paste used with it.
- Can I say teeth brush?
- People usually say toothbrush, not teeth brush.