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. [1913 Webster]

2. To touch in passing, or to pass lightly over, as with a brush. [1913 Webster]

Some spread their sailes, some with strong oars sweep The waters smooth, and brush the buxom wave. --Fairfax. [1913 Webster]

Brushed with the kiss of rustling wings. --Milton. [1913 Webster]

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. [1913 Webster]

As wicked dew as e'er my mother brushed With raven's feather from unwholesome fen. --Shak. [1913 Webster]

And from the boughts brush off the evil dew. --Milton. [1913 Webster]

{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. [1913 Webster]

You have commissioned me to paint your shop, and I have done my best to brush you up like your neighbors. --Pope. [1913 Webster]