1. A physical reaction:
* A reddening of the face, typically caused by embarrassment, shyness, or excitement. This is the most common understanding of the word.
* This reddening is caused by an increase in blood flow to the cheeks.
2. A cosmetic:
* A type of makeup that is applied to the cheeks to create a rosy, flushed look. Blush comes in various forms, including powder, cream, and liquid.
3. A verb:
* To become red in the face, typically from embarrassment, shyness, or excitement.
4. A literary term:
* A poetic or literary device that uses the color red to symbolize something like shame, love, or anger.
Examples:
* "She blushed when he complimented her." (Physical reaction)
* "I use a pink blush on my cheeks to make my face look more radiant." (Cosmetic)
* "The young girl blushed at the sight of the handsome stranger." (Verb)
* "The blushing rose symbolized her love for him." (Literary term)
The meaning of "blush" will be clear from the context in which it is used.