to brush up

Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

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]