paintbrush

[/ˈpeɪntbrʌʃ/]
nounfemininepl: paintbrushes
pincel de pintura
1. A brush with bristles or hair used for applying paint to a surface
The artist dipped the paintbrush into the blue paint.
A artista mergulhou o pincel de pintura na tinta azul.
2. A tool consisting of a handle and bristles designed specifically for painting artwork
She selected a fine paintbrush for the detailed work.
Ela selecionou um pincel fino para o trabalho detalhado.
3. Any brush used in painting, whether for fine art, wall painting, or other applications
We need larger paintbrushes to cover the wall quickly.
Precisamos de pincéis maiores para cobrir a parede rapidamente.
In Brazilian culture, painting is valued both as fine art and as a practical craft. The term 'pincel' is universally understood and used in art classes, DIY contexts, and professional settings. In the USA, paintbrushes are essential tools in both professional art studios and household contexts, reflecting the accessibility of visual arts in American culture. The phrase 'painting with a broad paintbrush' is commonly used idiomatically to mean making generalizations.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
brushartist's brushpainting brushbristle brush

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
pincel de pintura
Most common and standard term
General Brazilian Portuguese
pincel
Shortened informal version commonly used
São Paulo
pincel de pintura
Standard usage, same as general Brazilian
Portugal
pincel de pintura
European Portuguese uses the same term; may also use 'trincha' for larger wall-painting brushes

Related Words

paintcanvaspalettebristleseaselstrokepigment

Related Idioms & Phrases

with a broad paintbrush - de forma geral, sem detalhes
to paint with a broad paintbrush - generalizar, fazer afirmações amplas
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